Molecular Hydrogen Promotes Adipose-derived Stem Cell Myogenic Differentiation via Regulation of Mitochondria

Background: Acute skeletal muscle injuries are common physical or sports traumas. Cellular therapy has excellent potential for regeneration after skeletal muscle injury. Adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) are a more accessible type of stem cell. However, it has a low survival rate and differentiation efficiency in the oxidative stress-rich microenvironment after transplantation. Although molecular hydrogen (H2) possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant biological properties, its utility in mitochondrial and stem cell research has not been adequately explored. Objective: This study aimed to reveal the role of H 2on adipose-derived stem cells' myogenic differentiation. Methods: The protective effects of H 2in ADSCs were evaluated by MTT assay, live-dead cell staining, western blot analysis, immunofluorescence staining, confocal imaging, and transmission electron microscopy. Results: An appropriate volume fraction of H 2significantly decreased mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, increased the number of mitochondria, and promoted mitophagy, thus enhancing the survival and myogenic differentiation of ADSCs. Conclusion: This study reveals the application potential of H 2in skeletal muscle diseases or other pathologies related to mitochondrial dysfunction.