Therapeutic Effects of Noble Gases

Since the last century, it has been known that inert gases can cause a range of physiological effects. The biological activity of inert gases is an extremely multifaceted phenomenon. Despite the similarity of most physical and chemical characteristics, they differently influence many organs and tissues by interacting with a variety of protein targets. Xenon, krypton, and argon are now known to be capable of altering the functional state of the central nervous system and correcting some psychoemotional disorders. In addition, noble gases act on the processes of apoptosis and cellular stress response, affect the immune status and various homeostatic parameters. The cytoprotective effects of helium on the cardiovascular and respiratory systems have also been convincingly demonstrated. Thus, inert gases are currently being considered as potential tools to correct various diseases. This review analyzes literature data on the physiological effects of inert gases, as identified in biomedical studies on patients, as well as in cell culture and in vivo models. Each chapter is dedicated to a particular gas of this group, starting from the most studied. For each of the inert gases (helium, neon, argon, krypton, xenon, and radon), the physiological activity, possibility of being used in medicine, and some known mechanisms of its action are considered. Moreover, the existing data are critically analyzed, and the key gaps to be filled in future research are highlighted.