Effect of molecular hydrogen treatment on Sepsis-Associated encephalopathy in mice based on gut microbiota

Qingqing Han1, Yuanyuan Bai2, Chunjing Zhou3

  • 1Department of Anaesthesiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin Research Institute of Anaesthesiology, Tianjin, China.

Abstract

Insights

Molecular hydrogen (H2) improves outcomes in sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) by restoring gut microbiota and reducing inflammation. This study explores H2

Area of Science:

  • Microbiology
  • Neuroscience
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) is a severe complication of sepsis, impacting brain function.
  • Gut microbiota dysbiosis is implicated in SAE pathogenesis, but mechanisms remain unclear.
  • Molecular hydrogen (H2) is being investigated for its therapeutic potential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of molecular hydrogen on gut microbiota and metabolic changes in a mouse model of SAE.
  • To explore the regulatory mechanism of H2 in SAE.

Main Methods:

  • Male wild-type mice were assigned to sham, SAE, SAE + H2 gas, or SAE + hydrogen-rich water groups.
  • Fecal samples were analyzed using 16S rDNA sequencing.
  • Serum and brain tissues underwent untargeted metabolomics analysis.

Main Results:

  • Molecular hydrogen treatment significantly improved functional outcomes in SAE mice.
  • H2 administration downregulated inflammatory responses in the brain and gut.
  • H2 treatment ameliorated gut microbiota dysbiosis and partially corrected metabolic disorders.

Conclusions:

  • Molecular hydrogen promotes functional recovery in SAE by modulating gut bacteria and reducing inflammation.
  • H2 may increase beneficial bacteria and decrease harmful bacteria, contributing to its therapeutic effects.
  • Hydrogen-rich interventions show promise for managing SAE and its associated metabolic disturbances.

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