H₂ as a potential redox homeostasis modulator: a review of mechanisms targeting key elements of cardiovascular...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Science
• Cardiovascular Research
• Oxidative Stress Biology

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading global cause of mortality.
• Oxidative stress imbalance is a key factor in CVD pathogenesis.
• Hydrogen (H2) demonstrates selective reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging and redox homeostasis regulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the multi-level regulatory mechanisms of H2 in CVDs.
• To explore H2's role in modulating the oxidative stress microenvironment in CVDs.
• To propose a "precision H2 medicine" framework for targeted CVD therapy.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of preclinical and translational research on H2 in CVDs.
• Analysis of H2's effects on key molecular pathways (Nrf2-Keap1, AMPK/mTOR, JAK-STAT, etc.).
• Evaluation of H2's anti-inflammatory properties and ROS scavenging capabilities.

Main Results:

• H2 modulates cellular redox balance by activating pathways like Nrf2-Keap1 and inhibiting others (e.g., NOX4/NLRP3, LOX-1/NF-κB).
• H2 exhibits anti-inflammatory effects beyond simple ROS scavenging.
• The heterogeneity of the oxidative stress microenvironment in CVDs is analyzed in relation to H2's therapeutic potential.

Conclusions:

• H2 offers a unique therapeutic approach for CVDs by targeting oxidative stress and inflammation.
• The proposed "precision H2 medicine" framework provides a basis for targeted CVD treatment.
• Further research integrating preclinical and clinical evidence can optimize H2-based therapies for CVDs.