An evolutionary perspective on the interplays between hydrogen sulfide and oxygen in cellular functions

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
• Evolutionary Biology
• Physiology

Background:

• Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an endogenously generated molecule with significant physiological roles.
• H2S has been implicated in the origin of life and is metabolized across diverse organisms.
• The relationship between H2S and oxygen is critical for understanding cellular functions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of H2S in the origin of life and its metabolism.
• To examine the evolutionary relationship between H2S and oxygen.
• To emphasize the oxygen-dependent signaling of H2S in physiological and pathological processes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review synthesizing existing research on H2S and oxygen.
• Analysis of H2S metabolism from bacteria to vertebrates.
• Examination of the evolutionary perspective linking H2S and oxygen.

Main Results:

• H2S is involved in aerobic respiration, stimulating oxidative phosphorylation and ATP production.
• H2S acts as an oxygen sensor, providing protective effects against ischemia-reperfusion injury.
• Evidence indicates that H2S signaling is predominantly oxygen-dependent.

Conclusions:

• The intricate relationship between H2S and oxygen is fundamental to cellular functions.
• H2S, despite its ancient anoxic origins, remains vital for modern homeostasis.
• Understanding the oxygen-dependent nature of H2S signaling is key to its physiological and pathological roles.