# Hydrogen gas: A new fresh keeping agent of perishable horticultural products.
> 水素ガスによる園芸作物の収穫後鮮度保持：生化学的メカニズムと応用展望


## Abstract

This review consolidates current findings on hydrogen gas (H₂) as a gaseous signaling molecule involved in postharvest senescence of horticultural products. Evidence indicates that H₂ modulates multiple biochemical pathways, including enhancement of antioxidant defense systems, activation of cell wall metabolism, stimulation of energy metabolism, suppression of ethylene biosynthesis, and regulation of microbial communities. Interactions between H₂ and other signaling molecules are examined, along with the biological safety profile of H₂ in postharvest contexts. The review also outlines downstream molecular targets relevant to H₂ biology and discusses the scientific and practical implications of applying H₂ for extending the shelf life of perishable horticultural commodities.

### Mechanism

H₂ delays postharvest senescence by upregulating antioxidant systems, activating cell wall and energy metabolism, inhibiting ethylene biosynthesis, and modulating bacterial communities on horticultural products.

## Bibliographic

- **Authors**: Fang H, Ye F, Yang R, Huang D, Chen X, Wang CY, et al.
- **Journal**: Food Chem
- **Year**: 2024 (2024-09-01)
- **PMID**: [38677131](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38677131/)
- **DOI**: [10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139476](https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodchem.2024.139476)
- **Study type**: review
- **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 38677131. https://h2-papers.org/en/papers/38677131
> **Source**: PubMed PMID [38677131](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38677131/)