OUR brains rely on the deadly gas hydrogen sulphide to function, says Hideo Kimura from the National Institute for Neurosciences in Tokyo.
The pungent gas is produced as neurons become active, and helps carry signals through the brain. Experiments in mice show that it may be vital for learning (Journal of Neuroscience, vol 22, p 3386). Mutations of the enzyme that produces the gas can cause a form of mental retardation in people. The researchers will soon publish their finding that people with Alzheimer’s have severely reduced H2S levels.
