Recent Development of the Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms of Hydrogen Sulfide Gasotransmitter

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide has been recently identified as the third biological gasotransmitter, along with the more well studied nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO). Intensive studies on its potential as a therapeutic agent for cardiovascular, inflammatory, infectious and neuropathological diseases have been undertaken. Here we review the possible direct targets of H2S in mammals. H2S directly interacts with reactive oxygen/nitrogen species and is involved in redox signaling. H2S also reacts with hemeproteins and modulates metal-containing complexes. Once being oxidized, H2S can persulfidate proteins by adding -SSH to the amino acid cysteine. These direct modifications by H2S have significant impact on cell structure and many cellular functions, such as tight junctions, autophagy, apoptosis, vesicle trafficking, cell signaling, epigenetics and inflammasomes. Therefore, we conclude that H2S is involved in many important cellular and physiological processes. Compounds that donate H2S to biological systems can be developed as therapeutics for different diseases.

Improving endothelial health with food-derived H2S donors: an in vitro study with S-allyl cysteine and with a black-garlic extract enriched in sulfur-containing compounds

“…The antioxidant activity of SAC on endothelial cells was first highlighted by Ide et al 34 and is dependent on the multifaceted antioxidant role of H 2 S: it indeed reduces ROS levels by both direct mechanisms (ROS scavenging, increase in SOD activity) and indirect pathways (increase in non-enzymatic antioxidant systems, increase in Nrf2-dependent expression of antioxidant enzymes). 35…”

Microbiota of the gastrointestinal tract: Friend or foe?

“…It is believed that the physiological and pathological effects of hydrogen sulfide are associated with its concentration[ 200 ]. Given that intracellular hydrogen sulfide has a significant impact on many cellular functions, such as TJs, autophagy, apoptosis, vesicle trafficking, cell signaling, epigenetics and inflammasomes[ 201 ], and can be used as a therapeutic agent, its further study may open new opportunities in understanding the mechanisms of the development of pathological conditions and their treatment.…”

Metal–organic frameworks modified electrode for H2S detections in biological and pharmaceutical agents

“…Hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) and polysulfide (H 2 S n ) play crucial roles in regulating physiological and pathological functions in living systems. [1][2][3] It is involved in essential regulating processes such as vasodilation, cardio-protection, anti-inflammation, apoptosis, neurotransmission, and so on. 4 It is discovered that injections of H 2 S in specific amounts may have therapeutic benefits.…”