Hydrogen-rich saline protects immunocytes from radiation-induced apoptosis.

Abstract

This study examined whether hydrogen-rich saline and medium could protect immune cells from ionizing radiation (IR)-induced damage. In AHH-1 cells, pretreatment with hydrogen-rich medium significantly lowered intracellular hydroxyl radical (•OH) levels as measured by HPF probe. In mouse models, radiation-induced apoptosis in thymocytes and splenocytes was reduced following hydrogen administration, and caspase 3 activation was correspondingly suppressed. Hematological analysis further revealed that radiation-caused reductions in white blood cell and platelet counts were partially restored in hydrogen-treated animals. These findings indicate that molecular hydrogen can mitigate IR-induced immune system damage through free radical scavenging and anti-apoptotic mechanisms.

Mechanism

Molecular hydrogen scavenges hydroxyl radicals (•OH), thereby suppressing caspase 3 activation and reducing radiation-induced apoptosis in thymocytes, splenocytes, and circulating immune cells.