Hydrogen Gas Reduces Brain Injury Symptoms from Blasts in Mice
Molecular Hydrogen Prevents Social Deficits and Depression-Like Behaviors Induced by Low-Intensity Blast in Mice
Research hubs: Brain & Nervous System
This research was done in animals. Results in animals often don't carry over to people.
- Evidence type
- Animal study (mouse)
- Authors
- Yasushi Satoh, Yoshiyuki Araki, Masashi Kashitani, Kiyomasa Nishii, Yasushi Kobayashi, Masanori Fujita, Shinya Suzuki, Yuji Morimoto, Shinichi Tokuno, Gentaro Tsumatori, Tetsuo Yamamoto, Daizoh Saitoh, Toshiaki Ishizuka
- Journal
- Journal of Neuropathology & Experimental Neurology
- Year
- 2018
- PMID
- 30053086
- Study Type
- Mouse
- Delivery
- Gas
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Cited by
- 25 (OpenAlex, as of November 2026)
- Country
- Japan
TL;DR
Inhaling hydrogen gas could potentially help treat mild brain injuries caused by explosions.
Key Finding
Molecular hydrogen gas significantly reduced social deficits and depression-like behaviors in mice with blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury.
Summary
Researchers exposed mice to blast waves similar to those from explosions to study blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury. They found that molecular hydrogen gas (a colorless gas with antioxidant properties) reduced behavioral problems, social withdrawal, and depression-like symptoms in these injured mice, possibly by reducing oxidative stress and brain swelling.
Practical Takeaway
This is an early-stage animal study suggesting hydrogen gas may have neuroprotective effects for blast-related brain injury. However, results from mouse studies do not automatically translate to humans, and no human trials have been conducted. Much more research would be needed before hydrogen could be considered a treatment for blast injury in people.
Abstract (excerpt)
Detonation of explosive devices creates blast waves, which can injure brains even in the absence of external injuries. Among these, blast-induced mild traumatic brain injury (bmTBI) is increasing in military populations, such as in the wars in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Syria. Although the clinical…