A group of Chinese scientists led by Heanjanu from Shanghai University, Jiao Tong, have developed an implantable bi-compatible frame that effectively slows down the aging processes in living tissues. The results of their work have been published in the authoritative scientific journal Nature Communications.
In the field of science, it has long been known that hydrogen possesses unique anti-aging properties and has the ability to neutralize adverse changes in cells. However, delivering hydrogen to body tissues at the necessary concentration for a significant period of time in order to achieve a stable therapeutic effect has proven to be quite challenging.
Through the application of advanced nanotechnologies, Chinese researchers have successfully addressed this issue. The implantable frame gradually releases hydrogen into the surrounding tissues over a span of several days, which is 40,000 times more effective than traditional methods such as consuming special water or through inhalation.
The team conducted experiments on mice that were aged 24 months, an equivalent to around 70 years in humans, and surgically created defects in the femoral region. The study demonstrated that the frame significantly accelerates the regeneration of bone tissue in the damaged area compared to the control group without an implant. He Tsianjun, one of the researchers, believes that this technology has the potential to be used in the treatment of various age-related diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.
At the cellular level, aging is largely influenced by the phenomenon of senescence. This involves a gradual deterioration in the ability of cells to divide and grow, as well as DNA damage. In addition, cells begin to actively produce pro-inflammatory agents, which suppress regenerative processes. For older individuals, this phenomenon becomes the main obstacle to tissue healing in cases of injuries and diseases.
The frame is constructed using silicon and calcium nanoparticles, which enable the gradual release of hydrogen. These substances are applied to a porous biosteclo and enclosed in a biodegradable polymer shell to control the rate of degradation.
The authors of the study believe that improving the delivery methods of hydrogen to living tissues could revolutionize the fight against age-related changes and pathologies. In the future, the scientists plan to extend the release time of hydrogen from the implant and investigate its potential use in various critical conditions.