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Molecular hydrogen (H 2 , dihydrogen) is considered an antioxidant and signaling molecule that possesses potent antioxidative, antiapoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Despite the growing interest in H 2 as a potential therapeutic agent, there is a scarcity of fundamental studies on dihydrogen and limited knowledge regarding its effects on cellular health and function. In this paper, we propose a hypothesis concerning the potential link between H 2 shortage and overall health status. The primary objective is to address two critical questions: first, what is the overall significance of H 2 levels in maintaining optimal cellular function, and second, whether specific health conditions are associated with H 2 deficiencies. Further validation is necessary to establish the relationship between H 2 levels and health, yet the growing body of evidence indicates that disturbances in H 2 turnover may have a modulatory effect on immune function, homeostasis, and the development of neurodegenerative diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Guanidinoacetic acid (GAA) is a natural amino acid derivative that acts as a precursor of creatine while being synthesized and utilized in a two-step reaction that takes place in the human kidney and liver. In this paper, we have proposed that guanidinoacetase, an enzyme present in healthy gut microbiota, might contribute to gross GAA turnover by hydrolyzing GAA to glycine and urea or vice versa. Additional studies are thus needed to assess a net gain of this microbiota-driven GAA pathway that may account for energy metabolism homeostasis in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mitochondrial dysfunction (MD) is a complex pathophysiological phenomenon, linked with many inherited and acquired diseases. A clinical evaluation of MD requires rather extensive approach, while no gold-standard circulating biomarker has been established so far. Partly produced in mitochondria, creatine thus might be considered as a sensible compound of mitochondrial bioenergetics. Increased plasma creatine perhaps is linked with MD, illustrating disturbances in its utilization in the stressed organelle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Molecular hydrogen (H 2 , 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. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]