Molecular Hydrogen and Its Effect on Wound Healing and Tissue Regeneration

Abstract

Chronic, non-healing wounds represent a major clinical challenge with substantial economic burden. Impaired wound healing stems from excessive inflammation, infection, ischemia, and oxidative stress. Molecular hydrogen has recently emerged as a therapeutic medical gas with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties through selective free radical scavenging, activating antioxidant enzymes, reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines, and potentially modulating cell signaling. Arly preclinical evidence shows hydrogen therapy may promote wound healing through accelerated closure, decreased inflammation, and mitigated tissue injury. Initial small-scale human pilots and case reports demonstrate feasibility and apparent safety of administering hydrogen via inhalation, ingestion, topical application, or baths. However, rigorous clinical trials validating therapeutic efficacy are lacking. Further research should optimize delivery, dose, timing, and tissue bioavailability to translate promising preclinical findings into effective clinical hydrogen treatments for wound care. Definitive large-scale studies are critical next steps.