Sulfane sulfur - new findings on an old topic

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Molecular Biology
• Chemical Biology

Background:

• Sulfane sulfur is a reactive, labile sulfur form found in various biological compounds like persulfides and polysulfides.
• It plays a role in modifying proteins via S-sulfhydration and is linked to cysteine metabolism products.
• Sulfane sulfur compounds are recognized for their antioxidant properties and as a storage form of hydrogen sulfide (H2S).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent findings on the biological roles of sulfane sulfur compounds.
• To discuss the disruption of sulfane sulfur levels in various patho/physiological conditions.
• To present sulfane sulfur donors with potential therapeutic applications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on recent advancements in sulfane sulfur research.
• Analysis of new findings regarding the biological functions and regulation of sulfane sulfur.
• Examination of novel analytical methods for detecting sulfane sulfur in biological samples.

Main Results:

• Sulfane sulfur compounds, particularly persulfides and polysulfides, exhibit significant regulatory and antioxidant properties.
• These compounds can be incorporated into proteins and modify cysteine residues, influencing protein function.
• Sulfane sulfur serves as a crucial reservoir for the gasotransmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S).

Conclusions:

• Sulfane sulfur is integral to biological systems, with growing interest in its diverse roles.
• Dysregulation of sulfane sulfur levels is implicated in various disease states.
• Advancements in analytical techniques enable more precise measurement of sulfane sulfur, facilitating further research.