Advances of H₂S in Regulating Neurodegenerative Diseases by Preserving Mitochondria Function

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Toxicology

Background:

• Neurotoxicity, driven by environmental chemicals, drugs, and toxins, causes oxidative damage and neurodegeneration.
• The brain's high oxygen demand makes neurons highly susceptible to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, key factors in neurodegenerative diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) as a neuromodulator and neuroprotectant in neurodegenerative diseases.
• To emphasize H2S' therapeutic potential for neurological disorders through its effects on mitochondria and protein sulfhydration.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on the biochemical and physiological effects of H2S in the nervous system.
• Analysis of H2S' mechanisms of action, including its modulation of mitochondrial activity and protein sulfhydration.

Main Results:

• H2S, initially considered toxic, is now recognized for its neuromodulatory and neuroprotective properties.
• H2S oxidation in mitochondria generates reactive sulfur species, leading to protein modification via S-sulfhydration.
• H2S exhibits anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects, crucial for neuroprotection.

Conclusions:

• H2S plays a significant role in modulating neurodegenerative disease progression.
• H2S' ability to protect neurons via anti-oxidative and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, alongside S-sulfhydration, underscores its therapeutic value.
• H2S represents a promising therapeutic molecule for treating neurological diseases.