Gas Therapies for Neuro-Protection.

Abstract

Cardiac arrest (CA) continues to be a leading contributor to death and neurological disability worldwide, highlighting the demand for novel neuroprotective approaches. This review examines the evidence for inhaled gas agents—nitric oxide (NO), molecular hydrogen (H2), xenon (Xe), and argon (Ar)—as candidates for post-CA neuroprotection. Each gas demonstrates protective properties mediated through antioxidant activity, suppression of inflammatory cascades, and inhibition of apoptotic pathways, collectively helping to preserve neurological function following ischemic insult. Preclinical models and early-phase clinical investigations have yielded encouraging results; however, the authors emphasize that large-scale randomized trials are required to confirm efficacy, establish optimal dosing regimens, and facilitate integration into standard resuscitation protocols.

Mechanism

The reviewed gases, including H2, are proposed to reduce post-cardiac-arrest neurological injury via antioxidant scavenging of reactive species, suppression of inflammatory signaling, and inhibition of apoptotic cell death pathways.