Gaseotransmitters: new frontiers for translational science.

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology
• Translational Medicine

Background:

• Endogenous gaseous mediators, including nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S), are crucial signaling molecules.
• Translational research in this area has significantly expanded over the last decade.
• Existing drugs targeting these mediators or their pathways are in clinical use, with more under investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the chemical and pharmacological properties of endogenous gaseous mediators.
• To identify challenges associated with the clinical translation of these molecules.
• To provide insights into overcoming therapeutic hurdles for gaseous mediator-based drugs.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of translational research on NO, CO, and H2S.
• Analysis of chemical and pharmacological characteristics of gaseous mediators.
• Discussion of preclinical and clinical trial data.

Main Results:

• Significant advancements in understanding the roles of NO, CO, and H2S.
• Identification of key chemical and pharmacological properties posing translational challenges.
• Examples of drugs targeting gaseous mediators in clinical and preclinical development.

Conclusions:

• The therapeutic potential of gaseous mediators is substantial but requires careful consideration of their properties.
• Overcoming toxicity and delivery challenges is critical for successful clinical translation.
• Continued research is essential to harness the full therapeutic benefits of NO, CO, and H2S.