Redox Pioneer: Professor Hideo Kimura

Area of Science:

• Redox biology and oxidative stress research.

Background:

• Historically viewed as toxic, hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) was first identified as a physiological mediator in 1996.
• Dr. Hideo Kimura's foundational research established H₂S's role in cognitive function and vascular smooth muscle relaxation.

Discussion:

• Subsequent studies by Dr. Kimura revealed H₂S's cytoprotective effects on neurons against oxidative stress.
• Further research uncovered numerous physiological roles for H₂S, including regulation of inflammation, cell growth, oxygen sensing, and senescence.
• The discovery of polysulfides (H₂Sₙ) as potent signaling molecules produced by 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase expanded the understanding of sulfur-based signaling.

Key Insights:

• H₂S and H₂Sₙ act as crucial signaling molecules, influencing diverse physiological processes.
• H₂Sₙ regulate ion channels and transcription factors, upregulating antioxidant genes, tumor suppressors, and protein kinases.
• These findings prompted a re-evaluation of other persulfurated molecules, such as cysteine persulfide and glutathione persulfide.

Outlook:

• Dr. Kimura's pioneering work has established him as a leader in antioxidant and redox biology.
• Continued investigation into H₂S and H₂Sₙ signaling holds promise for understanding and treating various physiological conditions.