The Interplay of Exogenous and Endogenous Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) in Maintaining Redox Homeostasis in Individuals with Low Ferritin Levels

Abstract

The primary objective of this study was to investigate the influence of living near a thermal spring and being exposed to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) gas, which lingers in the surrounding atmosphere, on the redox and lipid peroxidation status of individuals with low ferritin levels. Participants in the study were divided into two groups based on their H2S exposure frequency and ferritin levels. Within Group A, individuals who did not experience occasional H2S exposure (2–3 h, 2–3 times per year) and had an average of normal ferritin levels of 87.5 ng/mL exhibited lower levels of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation compared to those with low ferritin levels (average of 6.57 ng/mL) in the same group. Additionally, individuals with normal ferritin levels showed higher levels of thiol, H2S, and antioxidant capacity. However, it was observed that individuals with low ferritin levels had significantly lower levels of endogenous H2S and thiol and higher levels of oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation. In Group B, individuals who experienced occasional H2S exposure (2–3 h, 10–12 times per year) and had an average of normal ferritin levels of 91.65 ng/mL showed lower oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation, as well as higher thiol, H2S, and antioxidant capacity. Surprisingly, individuals in Group B with low ferritin levels (average of 6.18 ng/mL) showed increased endogenous levels of H2S, which resulted in lower oxidative stress, and lipid peroxidation. These findings suggest that inhaling environmental H2S emitted from thermal springs may serve as an adaptive and protective mechanism for individuals with low ferritin levels by enhancing antioxidant capacity and reducing oxidative stress and lipid peroxidation modification, thus mitigating the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species.