[Research Highlights Vol.60] New Solid Materials Enable Broader Application of Medical Gases

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and nitric oxide (NO) are gases with useful bio-activities, such as anti-oxidation, anti-inflammation and vasodilation. H2S is an ingredient in hot spring and long known to have positive effects on the skin and cardiovascular system. NO is a selective and fast-acting pulmonary vasodilator, and is used in hospital intensive care units to treat severe respiratory distress, including the so-called “blue-baby syndrome,” a life-threatening condition caused by pulmonary hypertension. In addition, the inhaled NO therapy is currently under clinical trials for COVID-19 infection.