Comparison of hydrogen administration methods in the treatment of radiation-induced heart disease in rats

This exposure leads to oxidative stress and inflammation, which can damage cardiac tissue and vascular endothelium. Molecular hydrogen (H2) has been recognized for its therapeutic potential, including antioxidant effects.

In this study, male Wistar rats were irradiated with a dose of 10 Gy (X-rays) in the chest area. Two and nine days post-irradiation, significant increases in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), catalase, glutathione peroxidase activity, malondialdehyde, superoxide, and tumor necrosis factor alpha levels were observed in the rat blood plasma or heart tissue. Administration of H2 either via drinking H2-rich water (min. 4 mg/L) or inhaling H2 in air (4%), effectively decreased oxidative stress, LDH, and inflammatory proteins to normal levels.