The Role of Host-Generated H₂S in Microbial Pathogenesis: New Perspectives on Tuberculosis

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) was historically viewed as a toxic gas.
• Recent discoveries reveal H2S as a crucial signaling molecule and gasotransmitter, alongside nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO).
• The role of host-derived H2S in microbial pathogenesis remains significantly understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the chemistry and enzymatic production of H2S.
• To elucidate the multifaceted roles of H2S in host metabolism and immunity during microbial infections.
• To examine the specific impact of H2S on tuberculosis (TB) pathogenesis, including host responses and Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) survival.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of H2S chemistry, enzymology, and physiological roles.
• Analysis of existing research on H2S in microbial pathogenesis, with a focus on TB.
• Discussion of potential therapeutic strategies involving H2S modulation.

Main Results:

• H2S plays a critical role in various physiological and pathological processes.
• Host H2S influences immune responses and bioenergetics during Mtb infection.
• Mtb's growth and survival are affected by host-derived H2S.

Conclusions:

• H2S is an emerging gasotransmitter with significant implications in microbial pathogenesis.
• Understanding H2S' role in TB offers new insights into host-pathogen interactions.
• H2S-modulating agents hold potential for novel clinical applications in infectious diseases.