Hydrogen Water Protects Brain from Anesthesia-Related Memory Problems
- Authors
- Cheng Li, Lengchen Hou, Dan Chen, Fuqing Lin, Tao Chang, Mengzhu Li, Lingling Zhang, Xiaoyin Niu, Huiying Wang, Shukun Fu, Junhua Zheng
- Journal
- American Journal of Translational Research
- Year
- 2017
- Study Type
- Cell Culture
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Country
- China
- Health Condition
- Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction
- Body System
- Nervous System
TL;DR
Hydrogen-rich saline may protect against brain cell damage and memory problems caused by the anesthetic isoflurane.
Key Finding
Hydrogen-rich saline reduced brain cell damage and cognitive impairment caused by isoflurane anesthesia by decreasing harmful free radicals, restoring cellular energy, and blocking a cell-death pathway.
Summary
This study tested whether hydrogen-rich saline could protect brain cells from damage caused by isoflurane, a common anesthetic gas. Researchers exposed brain cells and mice to isoflurane and found that hydrogen-rich saline reduced harmful molecules called free radicals, improved energy production in cells, and prevented a cell-death process called caspase-3 activation. In mice, hydrogen-rich saline also improved memory problems caused by the anesthetic.
Practical Takeaway
This early-stage research in cells and animals suggests hydrogen-rich saline may help protect the brain from anesthesia-related damage, but these findings have not been tested in humans yet. The study does not establish whether hydrogen water (a different delivery form) would have similar effects in people. Much more research is needed before any clinical recommendations can be made.
Abstract (excerpt)
Objectives: The inhaled general anesthetic isoflurane has been shown to induce caspase-3 activation in vitro and in vivo. The underlying mechanisms and functional consequences of this activity remain unclear. Isoflurane can induce caspase-3 activation by causing accumulation of reactive oxygen…