Role of H2S Donors in Cancer Biology
1Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117596, Singapore.
Abstract:
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donors including organosulfur compounds (OSC), inorganic sulfide salts, and synthetic compounds are useful tools in studies to elucidate the effects of H2S in cancer biology. Studies using such donors have shown the ability of H2S to suppress tumor growth both in vitro and in vivo, with some of them suggesting the selectivity of its cytotoxic effects to cancer cells. In addition to promoting cancer cell death, H2S donors were also found to inhibit cancer angiogenesis and metastasis. The underlying mechanisms for the anticancer activities of H2S involve (1) cell signaling pathways, such as MAPK and STAT; (2) cell cycle regulation; (3) microRNAs regulation; and (4) cancer metabolism and pH regulation. Altogether, compiling evidences have demonstrated the great potential of using H2S donors as anticancer agents. Nevertheless, the application and development of H2S for therapy are still facing challenges as identification of molecular targets of H2S awaits further investigation.
Insights
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donors show promise in cancer research by suppressing tumor growth and metastasis. Further investigation is needed to identify molecular targets for therapeutic applications.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and its donors are valuable tools for investigating cancer biology.
- Studies indicate H2S can suppress tumor growth in vitro and in vivo, with selective cytotoxicity towards cancer cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the anticancer effects of H2S donors.
- To explore the mechanisms underlying H2S's anticancer activities.
- To highlight the therapeutic potential and challenges of H2S in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing studies on H2S donors in cancer research.
- Analysis of mechanisms including cell signaling, cell cycle, microRNAs, and metabolism.
- Evaluation of in vitro and in vivo data on tumor suppression, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
Main Results:
- H2S donors demonstrate significant suppression of tumor growth, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
- Anticancer effects are mediated through modulation of MAPK, STAT signaling, cell cycle, microRNAs, and cancer metabolism/pH.
- Evidence suggests selective cytotoxicity of H2S towards cancer cells.
Conclusions:
- H2S donors exhibit considerable potential as anticancer agents.
- Mechanisms involve diverse cellular pathways crucial for cancer progression.
- Further research is required to identify specific molecular targets for H2S-based therapies.
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