Scientists at Johns Hopkins Medicine have found that hydrogen sulfide, the gas responsible for the foul smell of flatulence, could help protect aging brain cells from Alzheimer's disease. While toxic in large amounts, small doses may offer health benefits, according to a study published in the Proceedings of the National Academies of Science.
The human body naturally produces small amounts of hydrogen sulfide, which helps regulate cellular functions. The gas modifies target proteins through a process called sulfhydration, levels of which decrease with age and are notably lower in Alzheimer's patients, the researchers said.
In experiments on mice genetically modified to mimic Alzheimer's, those injected with a hydrogen sulfide-carrying compound showed a 50% improvement in cognitive and motor function over 12 weeks compared to untreated mice. The treated mice also demonstrated better memory and physical activity.
The study revealed that hydrogen sulfide prevents an enzyme called GSK3β from interacting with the Tau protein, which otherwise forms clumps that block nerve communication and lead to cell death. Lead scientist Dr. Bindu Paul noted that the findings link aging, neurodegeneration, and cell signaling using hydrogen sulfide.
Co-author Dr. Solomon Snyder explained that the compound used in the study mimics how the body produces small quantities of hydrogen sulfide. Researcher Dr. Matt Whiteman said that correcting brain levels of this gas could reverse some aspects of Alzheimer's disease.
