The Impact of Drugs on Hydrogen Sulfide Homeostasis in Mammals

Mammalian cells and tissues have the capacity to generate hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S) via catabolic routes involving cysteine metabolism. H2S acts on cell signaling cascades that are necessary in many biochemical and physiological roles important in the heart, brain, liver, kidney, urogenital tract, and cardiovascular and immune systems of mammals. Diminished levels of this molecule are observed in several pathophysiological conditions including heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and immune function. Interestingly, in the last two decades, it has become apparent that some commonly prescribed pharmacological drugs can impact the expression and activities of enzymes responsible for hydrogen sulfide production in cells and tissues. Therefore, the current review provides an overview of the studies that catalogue key drugs and their impact on hydrogen sulfide production in mammals.

Automated summary

Mammalian cells and tissues have the ability to produce hydrogen sulfide gas (H2S) through cysteine metabolism. H2S plays roles in cell signaling cascades essential in many biochemical and physiological processes in various organs and systems of mammals. Reduced levels of H2S are observed in several pathophysiological conditions, and it has been discovered that certain commonly prescribed drugs can affect the enzymes responsible for H2S production. Therefore, this review summarizes the studies on key drugs and their impact on H2S production in mammals.