Intelligent sulfur-based delivery systems for controlled hydrogen sulfide therapeutics: Progress and prospects

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Materials Science
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a vital gasotransmitter with therapeutic potential.
• Current H2S delivery systems face challenges like burst release and poor targeting.
• Intelligent sulfur-based systems are being developed for regulated H2S release.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review advancements in intelligent sulfur-based delivery systems for H2S therapy.
• To analyze structure-function relationships and synthesis strategies for H2S platforms.
• To propose a roadmap for transitioning H2S delivery systems from research to clinical application.

Main Methods:

• Mechanism-based analysis of structure-function relationships.
• Integration of chemical synthesis strategies across platforms (MOFs, exosomes, hydrogels).
• Assessment of translational relevance, including PK/PD and regulatory factors.

Main Results:

• Conventional H2S releasing agents suffer from premature release and lack of targeting.
• Intelligent systems offer stimuli-responsive and regulated H2S release for improved kinetics.
• AI-assisted design perspectives can guide future development.

Conclusions:

• Advanced sulfur-based systems are crucial for optimized H2S therapy.
• A strategic roadmap is proposed for clinical translation of H2S delivery systems.
• Consideration of PK/PD and regulatory aspects is essential for successful development.