# Is melanin a source of bioactive molecular hydrogen?
> メラニンは生体活性分子状水素の供給源となりうるか


## Abstract

This letter examines the hypothesis that melanin may function as an endogenous source of bioactive molecular hydrogen (H2) within biological systems. The authors consider the redox properties of melanin and its potential capacity to generate H2, offering a novel perspective on the possible biological significance of endogenously produced molecular hydrogen. The correspondence raises questions relevant to understanding non-exogenous H2 production pathways in living organisms.

### Mechanism

The letter proposes that melanin's redox chemistry may facilitate endogenous generation of molecular hydrogen, potentially contributing to intracellular H2 availability without external supplementation.

## Bibliographic

- **Authors**: Ostojic SM, Vojvodic-Ostojic A
- **Journal**: Pharmacol Res
- **Year**: 2016
- **PMID**: [26657415](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26657415/)
- **DOI**: [10.1016/j.phrs.2015.12.002](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2015.12.002)
- **Study type**: letter
- **Delivery route**: not specified
- **Effect reported**: not assessed

## Delivery context

The delivery route is not clearly identifiable from this paper. For hydrogen intake, inhalation is the most efficient route; inhalation, however, carries explosion risk (empirical LFL of 10%; high-concentration devices are not recommended).

## Safety notes

The delivery route is not clearly identifiable from this paper. For hydrogen intake, inhalation is the most efficient route; inhalation, however, carries explosion risk (empirical LFL of 10%; high-concentration devices are not recommended).

See also:
- [Inhalation concentration and LFL / UFL](https://h2-papers.org/en/safety-notes/inhalation-concentration)
- [Consumer Affairs Agency accident cases](https://h2-papers.org/en/safety-notes/accident-cases)

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> **Cite as**: H2 Papers — PMID 26657415. https://h2-papers.org/en/papers/26657415
> **Source**: PubMed PMID [26657415](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26657415/)