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Decompression sickness risk reduced by native intestinal flora in pigs after H2 dives
Summary
Intestinal microbes in pigs metabolized hydrogen (H2), reducing the risk of decompression sickness (DCS). Pigs with higher methane release showed lower DCS incidence after simulated H2 dives.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Microbiology
- Hyperbaric Medicine
Background:
- Decompression sickness (DCS) is a risk in diving and hyperbaric exposures.
- Hydrogen (H2) gas presents unique challenges in hyperbaric environments due to its storage potential in tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of native intestinal flora in metabolizing H2 and its potential protective effect against DCS.
- To determine if H2 metabolism by gut microbes influences DCS risk in pigs.
Main Methods:
- Pigs (n=27) were exposed to a simulated dive in a chamber pressurized with 84-93% H2.
- Gas chromatography monitored chamber concentrations of O2, H2, He, N2, and CH4.
- Methane (CH4) release indicated H2 metabolism by intestinal microbes; DCS was observed post-decompression.
Main Results:
- Pigs with DCS released significantly less methane (0.53 ppm) compared to those without DCS (1.40 ppm).
- H2 metabolism by intestinal flora was associated with a reduction in H2 storage in pig tissues.
- A reduction of approximately 12% in total H2 tissue storage was attributed to microbial metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Native intestinal flora in pigs can metabolize H2, potentially reducing DCS risk.
- H2 metabolism by gut microbes may offer a protective mechanism against DCS following H2 exposure.
- Further research into microbial H2 metabolism could inform strategies for mitigating DCS in hyperbaric exposures.