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Updated: Sep 28, 2025
03:55
A Sensitive Visual Method for the Detection of Hydrogen Sulfide Producing Bacteria
Published on: June 27, 2022
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Molecular Functions of Hydrogen Sulfide in Cancer
Rodney E Shackelford1, Islam Z Mohammad1, Andrew T Meram2
1Department of Pathology & Translational Pathobiology, LSU Health Sciences Center Shreveport, Shreveport, LA 71130, USA.
Summary
Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) acts as a gasotransmitter involved in cancer development. This review details how H2S promotes tumor growth, metastasis, and chemotherapy resistance through molecular mechanisms.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gasotransmitter with significant roles in physiological and pathophysiological processes.
- Elevated levels of H2S-synthesizing enzymes are observed in numerous human cancers, including colorectal, prostate, breast, and thyroid malignancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in cancer.
- To emphasize the molecular mechanisms underlying H2S's contribution to cancer development, progression, dedifferentiation, and metastasis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on H2S and cancer.
- Analysis of molecular pathways influenced by H2S in various cancer types.
Main Results:
- H2S promotes key cancer hallmarks: tumor growth, migration, invasion, angiogenesis, and metastasis.
- H2S enhances cellular and mitochondrial bioenergetics, DNA repair, and chemotherapy resistance.
- Increased H2S-synthesizing enzyme expression often correlates with poorer prognosis and advanced tumor stage.
Conclusions:
- Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a critical mediator in cancer progression, influencing multiple molecular pathways.
- Understanding H2S's role is essential for developing novel cancer therapies targeting its pro-tumorigenic effects.
Keywords:
3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferaseH2Scancercystathionine β-synthasecystathionine γ-lyasehydrogen sulfideMore Related Videos
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