Does HAlter Mitochondrial Bioenergetics via GHS-R1α Activation?

Abstract

Since 2007, over 400 original research articles have examined the medical potential of molecular hydrogen (H₂), a gas recognized for its selective antioxidant properties. Beyond its well-documented role in mitigating oxidative stress, emerging evidence points to H₂ involvement in additional mitochondrial functions, particularly metabolic pathways governing cellular energy production. This article explores the hypothesis that H₂ may modulate mitochondrial bioenergetics through activation of the growth hormone secretagogue receptor 1α (GHS-R1α), proposing a mechanistic framework that extends the known biological actions of H₂ beyond reactive oxygen species scavenging.

Mechanism

H₂ is proposed to activate GHS-R1α (the ghrelin receptor), thereby modulating mitochondrial energy metabolism pathways independently of its established reactive oxygen species scavenging activity.