Hydrogen Symbioses in Evolution and Disease: A Review
Hydrogen symbioses in evolution and disease
- Evidence type
- Review or commentary
- Authors
- A.C. Williams, D.B. Ramsden
- Journal
- QJM
- Year
- 2007
- PMID
- 17566009
- Study Type
- clinical
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Cited by
- 14 (OpenAlex, as of November 2026)
- Country
- United Kingdom
TL;DR
Scientists think that hydrogen is basically the fuel that powers all living things, and when our cells lose the ability to handle this hydrogen energy properly, we get sick and age faster. If we can figure out how to keep our hydrogen energy systems working well, we might be able to prevent disease and stay younger longer.
Summary
This theoretical study examines how hydrogen serves as the universal energy source for all living organisms. Researchers propose that life depends on complex hydrogen-sharing systems between cells and organisms. When these hydrogen-based energy circuits fail due to loss of cellular electrical potential, it may trigger premature aging and various diseases. The authors suggest that maintaining optimal hydrogen metabolism through cellular energy partnerships could be key to preventing age-related decline and multi-system diseases. While the hypothesis provides a unifying framework for understanding cellular energy and disease, experimental validation is needed to confirm these theoretical concepts.
Abstract (excerpt)
Hydrogen is the source of energy that unites the metabolisms and fuels the innovative potentials of all living organisms. Autotrophs use hydrogen emitted into hydrothermal vents, where symbiotic communities that share hydrogen thrive. On the surface, life developed using photons to cleave water…