Nitric Oxide (NO) and Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S) in Biology, Illness, and Therapies

A special issue of Antioxidants (ISSN 2076-3921). This special issue belongs to the section "ROS, RNS and RSS".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (15 October 2023) | Viewed by 41465

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Guest Editor
Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114, USA
Interests: nitric oxide; hydrogen sulfide; persulfide/polysulfide; sulfur metabolism; redox reaction; interaction/crosstalk; antioxidants; disease; therapy; detection methods
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Gaseous signaling molecules, including nitric oxide (NO), carbon dioxide (CO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), have been emerging as physiologically and pathophysiologically important mediators in mammals. Manipulating these mediators as a therapeutic measure seems to be promising in various diseases, and has already, at least partly, fulfilled their clinical application, mostly with the inhalation of NO. The manipulation of H2S or persulfide/polysulfide, oxidative products of H2S, is being examined in clinical trials. However, these therapies still possess challenging aspects for broader clinical application, such as toxicity, rapid diffusion, a short half-life and a narrow therapeutic window. Novel therapeutic methods or strategies are required to enable more successful clinical applications of these gaseous mediators. These mediators or their metabolites also crosstalk/interact each other, and could exhibit nonspecific diverse reactions, which complicate the understanding of the biology of gaseous mediators and remain to be elucidated.

In the current Special Issue, we welcome original research articles or review articles that focus on physiology/pathophysiology, therapies, detection methods and redox reactions related to NO, H2S and their metabolites, which help the establishment of novel therapies for illness.

Dr. Eizo Marutani
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • nitric oxide
  • hydrogen sulfide
  • persulfide/polysulfide
  • sulfur metabolism
  • redox reaction
  • interaction/crosstalk
  • antioxidants
  • disease
  • therapy
  • detection methods

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Published Papers (17 papers)

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18 pages, 7751 KiB  
Article
Cystathionine Gamma Lyase Is Regulated by Flow and Controls Smooth Muscle Migration in Human Saphenous Vein
by Shuang Zhao, Céline Deslarzes-Dubuis, Severine Urfer, Martine Lambelet, Sébastien Déglise and Florent Allagnat
Antioxidants 2023, 12(9), 1731; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12091731 - 7 Sep 2023
Viewed by 1698
Abstract
The saphenous vein is the conduit of choice for bypass grafting. Unfortunately, the hemodynamic stress associated with the arterial environment of the bypass vein graft leads to the development of intimal hyperplasia (IH), an excessive cellular growth and collagen deposition that results in [...] Read more.
The saphenous vein is the conduit of choice for bypass grafting. Unfortunately, the hemodynamic stress associated with the arterial environment of the bypass vein graft leads to the development of intimal hyperplasia (IH), an excessive cellular growth and collagen deposition that results in restenosis and secondary graft occlusion. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a ubiquitous redox-modifying gasotransmitter that inhibits IH. H2S is produced via the reverse trans-sulfuration pathway by three enzymes: cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST). However, the expression and regulation of these enzymes in the human vasculature remains unclear. Here, we investigated the expression of CSE, CBS and 3-MST in segments of native human saphenous vein and large arteries. Furthermore, we evaluated the regulation of these enzymes in vein segments cultured under static, venous (7 mmHg pressure) or arterial (100 mmHg pressure) pressure. CSE was expressed in the media, neointima and intima of the vessels and was negatively regulated by arterial shear stress. Adenoviral-mediated CSE overexpression or RNA interference-mediated CSE knock-down revealed that CSE inhibited primary human VSMC migration but not proliferation. We propose that high shear stress in arteriovenous bypass grafts inhibits CSE expression in both the media and endothelium, which may contribute to increased VSMC migration in the context of IH. Full article
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16 pages, 1619 KiB  
Article
Artifacts Introduced by Sample Handling in Chemiluminescence Assays of Nitric Oxide Metabolites
by Taiming Liu, Meijuan Zhang, Abraham Duot, George Mukosera, Hobe Schroeder, Gordon G. Power and Arlin B. Blood
Antioxidants 2023, 12(9), 1672; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12091672 - 25 Aug 2023
Viewed by 1269
Abstract
We recently developed a combination of four chemiluminescence-based assays for selective detection of different nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, including nitrite, S-nitrosothiols (SNOs), heme-nitrosyl (heme-NO), and dinitrosyl iron complexes (DNICs). However, these NO species (NOx) may be under dynamic equilibria during sample handling, which [...] Read more.
We recently developed a combination of four chemiluminescence-based assays for selective detection of different nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, including nitrite, S-nitrosothiols (SNOs), heme-nitrosyl (heme-NO), and dinitrosyl iron complexes (DNICs). However, these NO species (NOx) may be under dynamic equilibria during sample handling, which affects the final determination made from the readout of assays. Using fetal and maternal sheep from low and high altitudes (300 and 3801 m, respectively) as models of different NOx levels and compositions, we tested the hypothesis that sample handling introduces artifacts in chemiluminescence assays of NOx. Here, we demonstrate the following: (1) room temperature placement is associated with an increase and decrease in NOx in plasma and whole blood samples, respectively; (2) snap freezing and thawing lead to the interconversion of different NOx in plasma; (3) snap freezing and homogenization in liquid nitrogen eliminate a significant fraction of NOx in the aorta of stressed animals; (4) A “stop solution” commonly used to preserve nitrite and SNOs leads to the interconversion of different NOx in blood, while deproteinization results in a significant increase in detectable NOx; (5) some reagents widely used in sample pretreatments, such as mercury chloride, acid sulfanilamide, N-ethylmaleimide, ferricyanide, and anticoagulant ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid, have unintended effects that destabilize SNO, DNICs, and/or heme-NO; (6) blood, including the residual blood clot left in the washed purge vessel, quenches the signal of nitrite when using ascorbic acid and acetic acid as the purge vessel reagent; and (7) new limitations to the four chemiluminescence-based assays. This study points out the need for re-evaluation of previous chemiluminescence measurements of NOx, and calls for special attention to be paid to sample handling, as it can introduce significant artifacts into NOx assays. Full article
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17 pages, 4681 KiB  
Article
Hydrogen Sulfide-Releasing Indomethacin-Derivative (ATB-344) Prevents the Development of Oxidative Gastric Mucosal Injuries
by Urszula Głowacka, Marcin Magierowski, Zbigniew Śliwowski, Jakub Cieszkowski, Małgorzata Szetela, Dagmara Wójcik-Grzybek, Anna Chmura, Tomasz Brzozowski, John L. Wallace and Katarzyna Magierowska
Antioxidants 2023, 12(8), 1545; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12081545 - 2 Aug 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2362
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emerged recently as an anti-oxidative signaling molecule that contributes to gastrointestinal (GI) mucosal defense and repair. Indomethacin belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and is used as an effective intervention in the treatment of gout- [...] Read more.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) emerged recently as an anti-oxidative signaling molecule that contributes to gastrointestinal (GI) mucosal defense and repair. Indomethacin belongs to the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and is used as an effective intervention in the treatment of gout- or osteoarthritis-related inflammation. However, its clinical use is strongly limited since indomethacin inhibits gastric mucosal prostaglandin (PG) biosynthesis, predisposing to or even inducing ulcerogenesis. The H2S moiety was shown to decrease the GI toxicity of some NSAIDs. However, the GI safety and anti-oxidative effect of a novel H2S-releasing indomethacin derivative (ATB-344) remain unexplored. Thus, we aimed here to compare the impact of ATB-344 and classic indomethacin on gastric mucosal integrity and their ability to counteract the development of oxidative gastric mucosal injuries. Wistar rats were pretreated intragastrically (i.g.) with vehicle, ATB-344 (7–28 mg/kg i.g.), or indomethacin (5–20 mg/kg i.g.). Next, animals were exposed to microsurgical gastric ischemia-reperfusion (I/R). Gastric damage was assessed micro- and macroscopically. The volatile H2S level was assessed in the gastric mucosa using the modified methylene blue method. Serum and gastric mucosal PGE2 and 8-hydroxyguanozine (8-OHG) concentrations were evaluated by ELISA. Molecular alterations for gastric mucosal barrier-specific targets such as cyclooxygenase-1 (COX)-1, COX-2, heme oxygenase-1 (HMOX)-1, HMOX-2, superoxide dismutase-1 (SOD)-1, SOD-2, hypoxia inducible factor (HIF)-1α, xanthine oxidase (XDH), suppressor of cytokine signaling 3 (SOCS3), CCAAT enhancer binding protein (C/EBP), annexin A1 (ANXA1), interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β), interleukin 1 receptor type I (IL-1R1), interleukin 1 receptor type II (IL-1R2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), tumor necrosis factor receptor 2 (TNFR2), or H2S-producing enzymes, cystathionine γ-lyase (CTH), cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), or 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfur transferase (MPST), were assessed at the mRNA level by real-time PCR. ATB-344 (7 mg/kg i.g.) reduced the area of gastric I/R injuries in contrast to an equimolar dose of indomethacin. ATB-344 increased gastric H2S production, did not affect gastric mucosal PGE2 content, prevented RNA oxidation, and maintained or enhanced the expression of oxidation-sensitive HMOX-1 and SOD-2 in line with decreased IL-1β and XDH. We conclude that due to the H2S-releasing ability, i.g., treatment with ATB-344 not only exerts dose-dependent GI safety but even enhances gastric mucosal barrier capacity to counteract acute oxidative injury development when applied at a low dose of 7 mg/kg, in contrast to classic indomethacin. ATB-344 (7 mg/kg) inhibited COX activity on a systemic level but did not affect cytoprotective PGE2 content in the gastric mucosa and, as a result, evoked gastroprotection against oxidative damage. Full article
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15 pages, 2644 KiB  
Article
Reactive Sulfur Species Omics Analysis in the Brain Tissue of the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease
by Ayaka Kinno, Shingo Kasamatsu, Takaaki Akaike and Hideshi Ihara
Antioxidants 2023, 12(5), 1105; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12051105 - 16 May 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2482
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder whereby oxidative stress augmentation results in mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death by apoptosis. Emerging evidence indicates that reactive sulfur species (RSS), such as glutathione hydropersulfide (GSSH), is endogenously produced, functions as potent antioxidants, and regulate [...] Read more.
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder whereby oxidative stress augmentation results in mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death by apoptosis. Emerging evidence indicates that reactive sulfur species (RSS), such as glutathione hydropersulfide (GSSH), is endogenously produced, functions as potent antioxidants, and regulate redox signaling through the formation of protein polysulfides. However, the relationship between RSS and AD pathogenesis is not fully understood. In this study, we analyzed endogenous RSS production in the brain tissue of a familial AD model (5xFAD) mouse using multiple RSS-omics approaches. Memory impairment, increased amyloid plaques, and neuroinflammation have been confirmed in 5xFAD mice. Quantitative RSS omics analysis revealed that the total polysulfide content was significantly decreased in the brains of 5xFAD mice, whereas there was no significant difference in the levels of glutathione, GSSH, or hydrogen sulfide between wild-type and 5xFAD mice. In contrast, a significant decline in the protein polysulfide status was observed in the brains of 5xFAD mice, suggesting that RSS production and subsequent redox signaling might be altered during the onset and progression of AD. Our findings have important implications for understanding the significance of RSS in the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies for AD. Full article
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17 pages, 2655 KiB  
Article
Bioavailability of Organosulfur Compounds after the Ingestion of Black Garlic by Healthy Humans
by Alicia Moreno-Ortega, Gema Pereira-Caro, Iziar A. Ludwig, María-José Motilva and José Manuel Moreno-Rojas
Antioxidants 2023, 12(4), 925; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12040925 - 13 Apr 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2313
Abstract
The consumption of black garlic has been related to a decreased risk of many human diseases due to the presence of phytochemicals such as organosulfur compounds (OSCs). However, information on the metabolization of these compounds in humans is limited. By means of ultra-high-performance [...] Read more.
The consumption of black garlic has been related to a decreased risk of many human diseases due to the presence of phytochemicals such as organosulfur compounds (OSCs). However, information on the metabolization of these compounds in humans is limited. By means of ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS), this study aims to determine the OSCs and their metabolites excreted in urine 24 h after an acute intake of 20 g of black garlic by healthy humans. Thirty-three OSCs were identified and quantified, methiin (17,954 ± 6040 nmol), isoalliin (15,001 ± 9241 nmol), S-(2-carboxypropyl)-L-cysteine (8804 ± 7220 nmol) and S-propyl-L-cysteine (deoxypropiin) (7035 ± 1392 nmol) being the main ones. Also detected were the metabolites N-acetyl-S-allyl-L-cysteine (NASAC), N-acetyl-S-allyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide (NASACS) and N-acetyl-S-(2-carboxypropyl)-L-cysteine (NACPC), derived from S-allyl-L-cysteine (SAC), alliin and S-(2-carboxypropyl)-L-cysteine, respectively. These compounds are potentially N-acetylated in the liver and kidney. The total excretion of OSCs 24 h after the ingestion of black garlic was 64,312 ± 26,584 nmol. A tentative metabolic pathway has been proposed for OSCs in humans. Full article
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20 pages, 2032 KiB  
Article
Proteome Dynamics of Persulfidation in Leaf Tissue under Light/Dark Conditions and Carbon Deprivation
by Ana Jurado-Flores, Cecilia Gotor and Luis C. Romero
Antioxidants 2023, 12(4), 789; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12040789 - 23 Mar 2023
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1949
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) acts as a signaling molecule in plants, bacteria, and mammals, regulating various physiological and pathological processes. The molecular mechanism by which hydrogen sulfide exerts its action involves the posttranslational modification of cysteine residues to form a persulfidated thiol [...] Read more.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) acts as a signaling molecule in plants, bacteria, and mammals, regulating various physiological and pathological processes. The molecular mechanism by which hydrogen sulfide exerts its action involves the posttranslational modification of cysteine residues to form a persulfidated thiol motif. This research aimed to study the regulation of protein persulfidation. We used a label-free quantitative approach to measure the protein persulfidation profile in leaves under different growth conditions such as light regimen and carbon deprivation. The proteomic analysis identified a total of 4599 differentially persulfidated proteins, of which 1115 were differentially persulfidated between light and dark conditions. The 544 proteins that were more persulfidated in the dark were analyzed, and showed significant enrichment in functions and pathways related to protein folding and processing in the endoplasmic reticulum. Under light conditions, the persulfidation profile changed, and the number of differentially persulfidated proteins increased up to 913, with the proteasome and ubiquitin-dependent and ubiquitin-independent catabolic processes being the most-affected biological processes. Under carbon starvation conditions, a cluster of 1405 proteins was affected by a reduction in their persulfidation, being involved in metabolic processes that provide primary metabolites to essential energy pathways and including enzymes involved in sulfur assimilation and sulfide production. Full article
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14 pages, 1932 KiB  
Article
GYY4137-Derived Hydrogen Sulfide Donates Electrons to the Mitochondrial Electron Transport Chain via Sulfide: Quinone Oxidoreductase in Endothelial Cells
by Bastiaan S. Star, Elisabeth C. van der Slikke, Céline Ransy, Alain Schmitt, Robert H. Henning, Frédéric Bouillaud and Hjalmar R. Bouma
Antioxidants 2023, 12(3), 587; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12030587 - 27 Feb 2023
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2207
Abstract
The protective effects of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) to limit oxidative injury and preserve mitochondrial function during sepsis, ischemia/reperfusion, and neurodegenerative diseases have prompted the development of soluble H2S-releasing compounds such as GYY4137. Yet, the effects of GYY4137 on the [...] Read more.
The protective effects of hydrogen sulphide (H2S) to limit oxidative injury and preserve mitochondrial function during sepsis, ischemia/reperfusion, and neurodegenerative diseases have prompted the development of soluble H2S-releasing compounds such as GYY4137. Yet, the effects of GYY4137 on the mitochondrial function of endothelial cells remain unclear, while this cell type comprises the first target cell after parenteral administration. Here, we specifically assessed whether human endothelial cells possess a functional sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR), to oxidise GYY4137-released H2S within the mitochondria for electron donation to the electron transport chain. We demonstrate that H2S administration increases oxygen consumption by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs), which does not occur in the SQOR-deficient cell line SH-SY5Y. GYY4137 releases H2S in HUVECs in a dose- and time-dependent fashion as quantified by oxygen consumption and confirmed by lead acetate assay, as well as AzMC fluorescence. Scavenging of intracellular H2S using zinc confirmed intracellular and intramitochondrial sulfur, which resulted in mitotoxic zinc sulfide (ZnS) precipitates. Together, GYY4137 increases intramitochondrial H2S and boosts oxygen consumption of endothelial cells, which is likely governed via the oxidation of H2S by SQOR. This mechanism in endothelial cells may be instrumental in regulating H2S levels in blood and organs but can also be exploited to quantify H2S release by soluble donors such as GYY4137 in living systems. Full article
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14 pages, 4407 KiB  
Article
Anti-Hypertensive Property of an NO Nanoparticle in an Adenine-Induced Chronic Kidney Disease Young Rat Model
by You-Lin Tain, Hung-Wei Yang, Chih-Yao Hou, Guo-Ping Chang-Chien, Sufan Lin and Chien-Ning Hsu
Antioxidants 2023, 12(2), 513; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12020513 - 17 Feb 2023
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2010
Abstract
Hypertension is the most common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children but is still poorly controlled. Nitric oxide (NO) deficiency plays a pivotal role in CKD and hypertension. NO is known to have health benefits, while NO typically has a short [...] Read more.
Hypertension is the most common complication of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in children but is still poorly controlled. Nitric oxide (NO) deficiency plays a pivotal role in CKD and hypertension. NO is known to have health benefits, while NO typically has a short half-life and is not specifically targeted. In this study, we used a pediatric CKD model, which was induced in young rats by feeding them 0.25% adenine. We investigated two different NO donors, namely S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) and diethylenetriamine/NO adduct (DETA NONOate) via intraperitoneal injection at 10 mg/kg/day daily for 3 weeks. GSNO was delivered by Cu2+-doped zeolitic imidazolate framework (Cu/ZIF-8) nanoparticles to generate NO. As a result, we observed Cu/ZIF-8 nanoparticles were successfully loaded with GSNO and were able to release NO. Young rats fed with adenine displayed kidney dysfunction and hypertension at 9 weeks of age, which were prevented by GSNO-loaded nanoparticle or DETA NONOate treatment. GSNO-loaded nanoparticles reduced CKD-induced hypertension, which was related to an enhanced endogenous NO-generating system, reduced renal oxidative stress, and downregulated several components belonging to the classic renin–angiotensin (RAS) system. Our results cast new light on targeting NO delivery through the use of nanoparticles aiming to improve child-focused outcomes related to CKD worthy of clinical translation. Full article
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11 pages, 2551 KiB  
Communication
Hydrogen Sulfide Downregulates Oncostatin M Expression via PI3K/Akt/NF-κB Signaling Processes in Neutrophil-like Differentiated HL-60 Cells
by Na-Ra Han, Seong-Gyu Ko, Hi-Joon Park and Phil-Dong Moon
Antioxidants 2023, 12(2), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12020417 - 8 Feb 2023
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1971
Abstract
The cytokine oncostatin M (OSM) is regarded as a critical mediator in various inflammatory responses. While the gaseous signaling molecule hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays a role in a variety of pathophysiological conditions, such as hypertension, inflammatory pain, osteoarthritis, ischemic stroke, oxidative [...] Read more.
The cytokine oncostatin M (OSM) is regarded as a critical mediator in various inflammatory responses. While the gaseous signaling molecule hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays a role in a variety of pathophysiological conditions, such as hypertension, inflammatory pain, osteoarthritis, ischemic stroke, oxidative stress, retinal degeneration, and inflammatory responses, the underlying mechanism of H2S action on OSM expression in neutrophils needs to be clarified. In this work, we studied how H2S reduces OSM expression in neutrophil-like differentiated (d)HL-60 cells. To evaluate the effects of H2S, sodium hydrosulfide (NaHS, a donor that produces H2S), ELISA, real-time PCR (qPCR), immunoblotting, and immunofluorescence staining were utilized. Although exposure to granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) resulted in upregulated levels of production and mRNA expression of OSM, these upregulated levels were reduced by pretreatment with NaHS in dHL-60 cells. Similarly, the same pretreatment lowered phosphorylated levels of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, Akt, and nuclear factor-kB that had been elevated by stimulation with GM-CSF. Overall, our results indicated that H2S could be a therapeutic agent for inflammatory disorders via suppression of OSM. Full article
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14 pages, 987 KiB  
Article
Comparative Study of Different H2S Donors as Vasodilators and Attenuators of Superoxide-Induced Endothelial Damage
by Elisabetta Marini, Barbara Rolando, Federica Sodano, Federica Blua, Giulia Concina, Stefano Guglielmo, Loretta Lazzarato and Konstantin Chegaev
Antioxidants 2023, 12(2), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12020344 - 1 Feb 2023
Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4325
Abstract
In the last years, research proofs have confirmed that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays an important role in various physio-pathological processes, such as oxidation, inflammation, neurophysiology, and cardiovascular protection; in particular, the protective effects of H2S in cardiovascular diseases were [...] Read more.
In the last years, research proofs have confirmed that hydrogen sulfide (H2S) plays an important role in various physio-pathological processes, such as oxidation, inflammation, neurophysiology, and cardiovascular protection; in particular, the protective effects of H2S in cardiovascular diseases were demonstrated. The interest in H2S-donating molecules as tools for biological and pharmacological studies has grown, together with the understanding of H2S importance. Here we performed a comparative study of a series of H2S donor molecules with different chemical scaffolds and H2S release mechanisms. The compounds were tested in human serum for their stability and ability to generate H2S. Their vasorelaxant properties were studied on rat aorta strips, and the capacity of the selected compounds to protect NO-dependent endothelium reactivity in an acute oxidative stress model was tested. H2S donors showed different H2S-releasing kinetic and produced amounts and vasodilating profiles; in particular, compound 6 was able to attenuate the dysfunction of relaxation induced by pyrogallol exposure, showing endothelial protective effects. These results may represent a useful basis for the rational development of promising H2S-releasing agents also conjugated with other pharmacophores. Full article
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15 pages, 2163 KiB  
Article
Anserine and Carnosine Induce HSP70-Dependent H2S Formation in Endothelial Cells and Murine Kidney
by Charlotte Wetzel, Tilman Pfeffer, Ruben Bulkescher, Johanna Zemva, Sergio Modafferi, Alessandra Polimeni, Angela Trovato Salinaro, Vittorio Calabrese, Claus Peter Schmitt and Verena Peters
Antioxidants 2023, 12(1), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12010066 - 28 Dec 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2104
Abstract
Anserine and carnosine have nephroprotective actions; hydrogen sulfide (H2S) protects from ischemic tissue damage, and the underlying mechanisms are debated. In view of their common interaction with HSP70, we studied possible interactions of both dipeptides with H2S. H2 [...] Read more.
Anserine and carnosine have nephroprotective actions; hydrogen sulfide (H2S) protects from ischemic tissue damage, and the underlying mechanisms are debated. In view of their common interaction with HSP70, we studied possible interactions of both dipeptides with H2S. H2S formation was measured in human proximal tubular epithelial cells (HK-2); three endothelial cell lines (HUVEC, HUAEC, MCEC); and in renal murine tissue of wild-type (WT), carnosinase-1 knockout (Cndp1-KO) and Hsp70-KO mice. Diabetes was induced by streptozocin. Incubation with carnosine increased H2S synthesis capacity in tubular cells, as well as with anserine in all three endothelial cell lines. H2S dose-dependently reduced anserine/carnosine degradation rate by serum and recombinant carnosinase-1 (CN1). Endothelial Hsp70-KO reduced H2S formation and abolished the stimulation by anserine and could be restored by Hsp70 transfection. In female Hsp70-KO mice, kidney H2S formation was halved. In Cndp1-KO mice, kidney anserine concentrations were several-fold and sex-specifically increased. Kidney H2S formation capacity was increased 2–3-fold in female mice and correlated with anserine and carnosine concentrations. In diabetic Cndp1-KO mice, renal anserine and carnosine concentrations as well as H2S formation capacity were markedly reduced compared to non-diabetic Cndp1-KO littermates. Anserine and carnosine induce H2S formation in a cell-type and Hsp70-specific manner within a positive feedback loop with CN1. Full article
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20 pages, 2447 KiB  
Article
Sodium Thiosulphate-Loaded Liposomes Control Hydrogen Sulphide Release and Retain Its Biological Properties in Hypoxia-like Environment
by Lissette Sanchez-Aranguren, Milda Grubliauskiene, Hala Shokr, Pavanjeeth Balakrishnan, Keqing Wang, Shakil Ahmad and Mandeep Kaur Marwah
Antioxidants 2022, 11(11), 2092; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11112092 - 24 Oct 2022
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2481
Abstract
Hypoxia, or insufficient oxygen availability is a common feature in the development of a myriad of cardiovascular-related conditions including ischemic disease. Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) donors, such as sodium thiosulphate (STS), are known for their cardioprotective properties. However, H2S due [...] Read more.
Hypoxia, or insufficient oxygen availability is a common feature in the development of a myriad of cardiovascular-related conditions including ischemic disease. Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) donors, such as sodium thiosulphate (STS), are known for their cardioprotective properties. However, H2S due to its gaseous nature, is released and cleared rapidly, limiting its potential translation to clinical settings. For the first time, we developed and characterised liposome formulations encapsulating STS and explored their potential for modulating STS uptake, H2S release and the ability to retain pro-angiogenic and biological signals in a hypoxia-like environment mirroring oxygen insufficiency in vitro. Liposomes were prepared by varying lipid ratios and characterised for size, polydispersity and charge. STS liposomal encapsulation was confirmed by HPLC-UV detection and STS uptake and H2S release was assessed in vitro. To mimic hypoxia, cobalt chloride (CoCl2) was administered in conjunction with formulated and non-formulated STS, to explore pro-angiogenic and metabolic signals. Optimised liposomal formulation observed a liposome diameter of 146.42 ± 7.34 nm, a polydispersity of 0.22 ± 0.19, and charge of 3.02 ± 1.44 mV, resulting in 25% STS encapsulation. Maximum STS uptake (76.96 ± 3.08%) from liposome encapsulated STS was determined at 24 h. Co-exposure with CoCl2 and liposome encapsulated STS resulted in increased vascular endothelial growth factor mRNA as well as protein expression, enhanced wound closure and increased capillary-like formation. Finally, liposomal STS reversed metabolic switch induced by hypoxia by enhancing mitochondrial bioenergetics. These novel findings provide evidence of a feasible controlled-delivery system for STS, thus H2S, using liposome-based nanoparticles. Likewise, data suggests that in scenarios of hypoxia, liposomal STS is a good therapeutic candidate to sustain pro-angiogenic signals and retain metabolic functions that might be impaired by limited oxygen and nutrient availability. Full article
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14 pages, 10247 KiB  
Article
Altered Capacity for H2S Production during the Spontaneous Differentiation of Caco-2 Cells to Colonocytes Due to Reciprocal Regulation of CBS and SELENBP1
by Anne Sophie Scheller, Thilo Magnus Philipp, Lars-Oliver Klotz and Holger Steinbrenner
Antioxidants 2022, 11(10), 1957; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11101957 - 30 Sep 2022
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2105
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been proposed to promote tumor growth. Elevated H2S levels have been detected in human colorectal cancer (CRC) biopsies, resulting from the selective upregulation of cystathionine β-synthase (CBS). In contrast, the recently identified novel H2 [...] Read more.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has been proposed to promote tumor growth. Elevated H2S levels have been detected in human colorectal cancer (CRC) biopsies, resulting from the selective upregulation of cystathionine β-synthase (CBS). In contrast, the recently identified novel H2S-generating enzyme, selenium-binding protein 1 (SELENBP1), is largely suppressed in tumors. Here, we provide the first comparative analysis of the four human H2S-producing enzymes and the key H2S-catabolizing enzyme, sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR), in Caco-2 human colorectal adenocarcinoma cells. The gene expression pattern of proliferating Caco-2 cells parallels that of CRC, while confluent cells undergo spontaneous differentiation to a colonocyte-like phenotype. SELENBP1 and SQOR were strongly upregulated during spontaneous differentiation, whereas CBS was downregulated. Cystathionine γ-lyase and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase remained unaffected. Terminally differentiated cells showed an enhanced capacity to produce H2S from methanethiol and homocysteine. Differentiation induced by exposure to butyrate also resulted in the upregulation of SELENBP1, accompanied by increased SELENBP1 promoter activity. In contrast to spontaneous differentiation, however, butyrate did not cause downregulation of CBS. In summary, SELENBP1 and CBS are reciprocally regulated during the spontaneous differentiation of Caco-2 cells, thus paralleling their opposing regulation in CRC. Butyrate exposure, while imitating some aspects of spontaneous differentiation, does not elicit the same expression patterns of genes encoding H2S-modulating enzymes. Full article
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13 pages, 2580 KiB  
Article
Optimization of a Method for Detecting Intracellular Sulfane Sulfur Levels and Evaluation of Reagents That Affect the Levels in Escherichia coli
by Qiaoli Yu, Mingxue Ran, Yuqing Yang, Huaiwei Liu, Luying Xun and Yongzhen Xia
Antioxidants 2022, 11(7), 1292; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox11071292 - 29 Jun 2022
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1973
Abstract
Sulfane sulfur is a class of compounds containing zero-valent sulfur. Most sulfane sulfur compounds are reactive and play important signaling roles. Key enzymes involved in the production and metabolism of sulfane sulfur have been characterized; however, little is known about how to change [...] Read more.
Sulfane sulfur is a class of compounds containing zero-valent sulfur. Most sulfane sulfur compounds are reactive and play important signaling roles. Key enzymes involved in the production and metabolism of sulfane sulfur have been characterized; however, little is known about how to change intracellular sulfane sulfur (iSS) levels. To accurately measure iSS, we optimized a previously reported method, in which reactive iSS reacts with sulfite to produce thiosulfate, a stable sulfane sulfur compound, before detection. With the improved method, several factors were tested to influence iSS in Escherichia coli. Temperature, pH, and osmotic pressure showed little effect. At commonly used concentrations, most tested oxidants, including hydrogen peroxide, tert-butyl hydroperoxide, hypochlorous acid, and diamide, did not affect iSS, but carbonyl cyanide m-chlorophenyl hydrazone increased iSS. For reductants, 10 mM dithiothreitol significantly decreased iSS, but tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine did not. Among different sulfur-bearing compounds, NaHS, cysteine, S2O32− and diallyl disulfide increased iSS, of which only S2O32− did not inhibit E. coli growth at 10 mM or less. Thus, with the improved method, we have identified reagents that may be used to change iSS in E. coli and other organisms, providing tools to further study the physiological functions of iSS. Full article
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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

20 pages, 950 KiB  
Review
Role of Hydrogen Sulfide in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
by Nathalie Stummer, René G. Feichtinger, Daniel Weghuber, Barbara Kofler and Anna M. Schneider
Antioxidants 2023, 12(8), 1570; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12081570 - 6 Aug 2023
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 4653
Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), originally known as toxic gas, has now attracted attention as one of the gasotransmitters involved in many reactions in the human body. H2S has been assumed to play a role in the pathogenesis of many chronic [...] Read more.
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), originally known as toxic gas, has now attracted attention as one of the gasotransmitters involved in many reactions in the human body. H2S has been assumed to play a role in the pathogenesis of many chronic diseases, of which the exact pathogenesis remains unknown. One of them is inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a chronic intestinal disease subclassified as Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). Any change in the amount of H2S seems to be linked to inflammation in this illness. These changes can be brought about by alterations in the microbiota, in the endogenous metabolism of H2S and in the diet. As both too little and too much H2S drive inflammation, a balanced level is needed for intestinal health. The aim of this review is to summarize the available literature published until June 2023 in order to provide an overview of the current knowledge of the connection between H2S and IBD. Full article
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19 pages, 7673 KiB  
Review
Rhodanese-Fold Containing Proteins in Humans: Not Just Key Players in Sulfur Trafficking
by Razan Alsohaibani, Anne-Lise Claudel, Romain Perchat-Varlet, Séverine Boutserin, François Talfournier, Sandrine Boschi-Muller and Benjamin Selles
Antioxidants 2023, 12(4), 843; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12040843 - 31 Mar 2023
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 2443
Abstract
The Rhodanese-fold is a ubiquitous structural domain present in various protein subfamilies associated with different physiological functions or pathophysiological conditions in humans. Proteins harboring a Rhodanese domain are diverse in terms of domain architecture, with some representatives exhibiting one or several Rhodanese domains, [...] Read more.
The Rhodanese-fold is a ubiquitous structural domain present in various protein subfamilies associated with different physiological functions or pathophysiological conditions in humans. Proteins harboring a Rhodanese domain are diverse in terms of domain architecture, with some representatives exhibiting one or several Rhodanese domains, fused or not to other structural domains. The most famous Rhodanese domains are catalytically active, thanks to an active-site loop containing an essential cysteine residue which allows for catalyzing sulfur transfer reactions involved in sulfur trafficking, hydrogen sulfide metabolism, biosynthesis of molybdenum cofactor, thio-modification of tRNAs or protein urmylation. In addition, they also catalyse phosphatase reactions linked to cell cycle regulation, and recent advances proposed a new role into tRNA hydroxylation, illustrating the catalytic versatility of Rhodanese domain. To date, no exhaustive analysis of Rhodanese containing protein equipment from humans is available. In this review, we focus on structural and biochemical properties of human-active Rhodanese-containing proteins, in order to provide a picture of their established or putative key roles in many essential biological functions. Full article
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Other

Jump to: Research, Review

17 pages, 5744 KiB  
Systematic Review
Association between Plasmodium Infection and Nitric Oxide Levels: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
by Kwuntida Uthaisar Kotepui, Aongart Mahittikorn, Polrat Wilairatana, Frederick Ramirez Masangkay and Manas Kotepui
Antioxidants 2023, 12(10), 1868; https://doi.org/10.3390/antiox12101868 - 16 Oct 2023
Viewed by 1249
Abstract
Nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated in the pathology of malaria. This systematic review and meta-analysis describe the association between NO levels and malaria. Embase, Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched to identify studies evaluating NO levels in malaria patients and [...] Read more.
Nitric oxide (NO) has been implicated in the pathology of malaria. This systematic review and meta-analysis describe the association between NO levels and malaria. Embase, Ovid, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar were searched to identify studies evaluating NO levels in malaria patients and uninfected controls. Meta-regression and subgroup analyses were conducted to discern differences in NO levels between the groups. Of the 4517 records identified, 21 studies were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The findings illustrated significant disparities in NO levels based on geographic location and study time frames. Despite the fluctuations, such as higher NO levels in adults compared to children, no significant differences in mean NO levels between patients and uninfected controls (p = 0.25, Hedge’s g: 0.35, 95% confidence interval (CI): −0.25–0.96, I2: 97.39%) or between severe and non-severe malaria cases (p = 0.09, Hedge’s g: 0.71, 95% CI: −0.11–1.54, I2: 96.07%) were detected. The systematic review and meta-analysis highlighted inconsistencies in NO levels in malaria patients. Given the high heterogeneity of the results, further studies using standardized metrics for NO measurements and focusing on biochemical pathways dictating NO responses in malaria are imperative to understand the association between NO and malaria. Full article
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