Role of 3-Mercaptopyruvate Sulfurtransferase (3-MST) in Physiology and Disease

3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) plays the important role of producing hydrogen sulfide. Conserved from bacteria to Mammalia, this enzyme is localized in mitochondria as well as the cytoplasm. 3-MST mediates the reaction of 3-mercaptopyruvate with dihydrolipoic acid and thioredoxin to produce hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide is also produced through cystathionine beta-synthase and cystathionine gamma-lyase, along with 3-MST, and is known to alleviate a variety of illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, and neurological conditions. The importance of cystathionine beta-synthase and cystathionine gamma-lyase in hydrogen sulfide biogenesis is well-described, but documentation of the 3-MST pathway is limited. This account compiles the current state of knowledge about the role of 3-MST in physiology and pathology. Attempts at targeting the 3-MST pathway for therapeutic benefit are discussed, highlighting the potential of 3-MST as a therapeutic target.

Automated summary

3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) is an important enzyme involved in the production of hydrogen sulfide. It is conserved across species and found in both mitochondria and cytoplasm. In addition to other enzymes, 3-MST mediates the production of hydrogen sulfide, which has been shown to alleviate various illnesses. While the role of other enzymes in hydrogen sulfide biogenesis is well-documented, there is limited information on the 3-MST pathway. This article compiles current knowledge on the physiological and pathological roles of 3-MST, and explores its potential as a therapeutic target.