The Influence of Molecular Hydrogen on Oxygen-Dependent Processes in the Blood

Molecular hydrogen (Н2) belongs to a group of compounds capable of inhibiting free-radical processes at the cellular level, increasing antioxidant activity, enhancing metabolism, and restoring the structure of cell membranes. This study investigated the effect of molecular hydrogen on oxygen-dependent processes in the blood: blood oxygen transport, prooxidant-antioxidant balance, and the gasotransmitter system in vitro. The experiment was performed on male Wistar rats (n = 20). A gas mixture consisting of 98% air and 2% hydrogen was used for blood saturation. The blood was saturated for 5 minutes, then blood parameters were analyzed immediately after saturation, 30 minutes later, and 60 minutes later. Blood oxygen-transport parameters, gasotransmitter levels, lipid peroxidation products, and antioxidant system activity were determined in plasma and red blood cells. Results showed that incubating blood with hydrogen increases oxygen tension, blood oxygen saturation, and decreases hemoglobin's affinity for oxygen. The effect of H2 on blood is accompanied by an increase in the concentration of gasotransmitters such as nitrogen monoxide and hydrogen sulfide and a decrease in the level of diene conjugates and malondialdehyde in plasma and red blood cells. This is due to stimulation of the antioxidant system, resulting in increased catalase activity and reduced glutathione levels.