Hydrogen Gas Improves Kidney Transplant Success in Animal Study
Organ preservation solution containing dissolved hydrogen gas from a hydrogen-absorbing alloy canister improves function of transplanted ischemic kidneys in miniature pigs
This research was done in animals. Results in animals often don't carry over to people.
- Evidence type
- Animal study (pig)
- Authors
- Eiji Kobayashi, Motoaki Sano
- Journal
- PLoS One
- Year
- 2019
- PMID
- 31574107
- Study Type
- Pig
- Delivery
- Solution (Dissolved)
- Dose
- Hydrogen-containing cold ETK organ preservation solution; 5-minute perfusion followed by 1 or 4 hours storage
- H₂ concentration
- 1.0 mg/L
- Duration
- 6 days
- Outcome
- Positive
- Peer Reviewed
- Yes
- Cited by
- 30 (OpenAlex, as of November 2026)
- Country
- Japan
TL;DR
A new, quick method using a canister with a special alloy to dissolve hydrogen gas in organ preservation solutions improved kidney transplant outcomes in pigs.
Key Finding
Kidneys preserved in hydrogen-containing solution showed restored function after transplant (urine production and blood flow), while kidneys preserved without hydrogen showed no function in this pig model of ischemic injury.
Summary
Researchers tested a new way to preserve donor kidneys for transplant by dissolving hydrogen gas into preservation solution using a special canister. In a pig transplant model, kidneys that were damaged from lack of blood flow were treated with hydrogen-containing solution and then transplanted. Kidneys preserved with hydrogen produced urine and maintained blood flow after transplant, while kidneys preserved without hydrogen did not function.
Practical Takeaway
This early-stage animal study suggests hydrogen-enriched preservation solutions may help rescue damaged donor organs for transplant, but it is only a proof-of-concept in pigs. Human clinical trials would be needed to determine if this approach is safe and effective for actual organ transplantation.
Abstract (excerpt)
Various methods have been devised to dissolve hydrogen gas in organ preservation solutions, including use of a hydrogen gas cylinder, electrolysis, or a hydrogen-generating agent. However, these methods require considerable time and effort for preparation. We investigated a practical technique…