Eumelanin-driven production of molecular hydrogen: A novel element of skin defense?
Molecular hydrogen (H2, dihydrogen) has been recognized as a unique cell protectant. Dihydrogen protects tissues against oxidative injuries by selectively reducing reactive oxygen species (ROS). It seems that melanin, natural pigment of skin and hair, might produce endogenous hydrogen. The protective role of skin melanin (eumelanin) could be due to its capacity for molecular hydrogen production. An effective pooling of dihydrogen by eumelanin should be considered as a novel element of skin defense system against oxidative stress-related disorders.
University of Novi Sad, Lovcenska 16, 21000 Novi Sad, Serbia. Electronic address: sergej.ostojic@chess.edu.rs.
Sergej M
SM
Ostojic
D000818:Animals; D016166:Free Radical Scavengers / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D006859:Hydrogen / Q000378:metabolism*; D008543:Melanins / Q000378:metabolism*; D008954:Models, Biological; D017382:Reactive Oxygen Species / Q000378:metabolism*; D012867:Skin / Q000378:metabolism*
D016166:Free Radical Scavengers; D008543:Melanins; D017382:Reactive Oxygen Species; C041877:eumelanin; D006859:Hydrogen