Effect and mechanism of hydrogen-rich bath on mice with imiquimod-induced psoriasis.

Abstract

Using an imiquimod-induced psoriasis mouse model, this study compared hydrogen-rich water baths with distilled water baths. Psoriasis severity index (PSI) scores were significantly lower in the hydrogen-rich bath group (p<0.01). Histological analysis revealed reduced abnormal keratosis, spinous-layer thickening, and Munro abscess formation. Throughout the disease course, peak and overall levels of IL-17, IL-23, TNF-α, CD3, and malondialdehyde (MDA) were significantly reduced in hydrogen-rich bath animals (p<0.05). Skin proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression was also attenuated. These findings indicate that hydrogen-rich bathing suppresses inflammatory cytokine activity and oxidative stress while curtailing aberrant epidermal proliferation in this psoriasis model.

Mechanism

Hydrogen-rich bathing reduces pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-17, IL-23, TNF-α) and oxidative stress markers (MDA), while suppressing PCNA-associated epidermal hyperproliferation, collectively attenuating psoriatic skin lesions.