1
|
Fosnacht KG, Sharma J, Champagne PA, Pluth MD. Transpersulfidation or H 2S Release? Understanding the Landscape of Persulfide Chemical Biology. J Am Chem Soc 2024; 146:18689-18698. [PMID: 38935871 DOI: 10.1021/jacs.4c05874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/29/2024]
Abstract
Persulfides (RSSH) are biologically important reactive sulfur species that are endogenously produced, protect key cysteine residues from irreversible oxidation, and are important intermediates during different enzymatic processes. Although persulfides are stronger nucleophiles than their thiol counterparts, persulfides can also act as electrophiles in their neutral, protonated form in specific environments. Moreover, persulfides are electrophilic at both sulfur atoms, and the reaction with a thiolate can lead to either H2S release with disulfide formation or alternatively result in transpersulfidation. Despite the broad acceptance of these reaction pathways, the specific properties that control whether persulfides react through the H2S-releasing or transpersulfidation pathway remain elusive. Herein, we use a combined computational and experimental approach to directly investigate the reactivity between persulfides and thiols to answer these questions. Using density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we demonstrate that increasing steric bulk or electron withdrawal near the persulfide can shunt persulfide reactivity through the transpersulfidation pathway. Building from these insights, we use a synthetic persulfide donor and an N-iodoacetyl l-tyrosine methyl ester (TME-IAM) trapping agent to experimentally monitor and measure transpersulfidation from a bulky penicillamine-based persulfide to a cysteine-based thiol, which, to the best of our knowledge, is the first direct observation of transpersulfidation between low-molecular-weight species. Taken together, these combined approaches highlight how the properties of persulfides are directly impacted by local environments, which has significant impacts in understanding the complex chemical biology of these reactive species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kaylin G Fosnacht
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact, Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 97403, United States
| | - Jyoti Sharma
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey 07103, United States
| | - Pier Alexandre Champagne
- Department of Chemistry and Environmental Science, New Jersey Institute of Technology, Newark, New Jersey 07103, United States
| | - Michael D Pluth
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Materials Science Institute, Knight Campus for Accelerating Scientific Impact, Institute of Molecular Biology, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon 97403, United States
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Akaike T, Morita M, Ogata S, Yoshitake J, Jung M, Sekine H, Motohashi H, Barayeu U, Matsunaga T. New aspects of redox signaling mediated by supersulfides in health and disease. Free Radic Biol Med 2024; 222:539-551. [PMID: 38992395 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2024.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2024] [Revised: 07/05/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Oxygen molecules accept electrons from the respiratory chain in the mitochondria and are responsible for energy production in aerobic organisms. The reactive oxygen species formed via these oxygen reduction processes undergo complicated electron transfer reactions with other biological substances, which leads to alterations in their physiological functions and cause diverse biological and pathophysiological consequences (e.g., oxidative stress). Oxygen accounts for only a small proportion of the redox reactions in organisms, especially under aerobic or hypoxic conditions but not under anaerobic and hypoxic conditions. This article discusses a completely new concept of redox biology, which is governed by redox-active supersulfides, i.e., sulfur-catenated molecular species. These species are present in abundance in all organisms but remain largely unexplored in terms of redox biology and life science research. In fact, accumulating evidence shows that supersulfides have extensive redox chemical properties and that they can be readily ionized or radicalized to participate in energy metabolism, redox signaling, and oxidative stress responses in cells and in vivo. Thus, pharmacological intervention and medicinal modulation of supersulfide activities have been shown to benefit the regulation of disease pathogenesis as well as disease control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takaaki Akaike
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan.
| | - Masanobu Morita
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Seiryo Ogata
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Jun Yoshitake
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Minkyung Jung
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hiroki Sekine
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hozumi Motohashi
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Uladzimir Barayeu
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan; Max-Planck-Institute for Polymer Research, Mainz, 55128, Germany.
| | - Tetsuro Matsunaga
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan; Center for Integrated Control, Epidemiology and Molecular Pathophysiology of Infectious Diseases, Akita University, Akita, 010-8543, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lamb RJ, Griffiths K, Lip GYH, Sorokin V, Frenneaux MP, Feelisch M, Madhani M. ALDH2 polymorphism and myocardial infarction: From alcohol metabolism to redox regulation. Pharmacol Ther 2024; 259:108666. [PMID: 38763322 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2024.108666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains a leading cause of death worldwide. Increased formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during the early reperfusion phase is thought to trigger lipid peroxidation and disrupt redox homeostasis, leading to myocardial injury. Whilst the mitochondrial enzyme aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (ALDH2) is chiefly recognised for its central role in ethanol metabolism, substantial experimental evidence suggests an additional cardioprotective role for ALDH2 independent of alcohol intake, which mitigates myocardial injury by detoxifying breakdown products of lipid peroxidation including the reactive aldehydes, malondialdehyde (MDA) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE). Epidemiological evidence suggests that an ALDH2 mutant variant with reduced activity that is highly prevalent in the East Asian population increases AMI risk. Additional studies have uncovered a strong association between coronary heart disease and this ALDH2 mutant variant. It appears this enzyme polymorphism (in particular, in ALDH2*2/2 carriers) has the potential to have wide-ranging effects on thiol reactivity, redox tone and therefore numerous redox-related signaling processes, resilience of the heart to cope with lifestyle-related and environmental stressors, and the ability of the whole body to achieve redox balance. In this review, we summarize the journey of ALDH2 from a mitochondrial reductase linked to alcohol metabolism, via pre-clinical studies aimed at stimulating ALDH2 activity to reduce myocardial injury to clinical evidence for its protective role in the heart.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Reece J Lamb
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, The Medical School, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Kayleigh Griffiths
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, The Medical School, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Gregory Y H Lip
- Liverpool Centre for Cardiovascular Science at University of Liverpool, Liverpool John Moores University and Liverpool Heart & Chest Hospital, Liverpool, United Kingdom; Danish Centre for Health Services Research, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Vitaly Sorokin
- Department of Cardiac, Thoracic, and Vascular Surgery, National University Heart Centre, National University Health System, Singapore
| | | | - Martin Feelisch
- Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton and NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Melanie Madhani
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, The Medical School, University of Birmingham, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Nishimura A, Tang X, Zhou L, Ito T, Kato Y, Nishida M. Sulfur metabolism as a new therapeutic target of heart failure. J Pharmacol Sci 2024; 155:75-83. [PMID: 38797536 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2024.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Revised: 04/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Sulfur-based redox signaling has long attracted attention as critical mechanisms underlying the development of cardiac diseases and resultant heart failure. Especially, post-translational modifications of cysteine (Cys) thiols in proteins mediate oxidative stress-dependent cardiac remodeling including myocardial hypertrophy, senescence, and interstitial fibrosis. However, we recently revealed the existence of Cys persulfides and Cys polysulfides in cells and tissues, which show higher redox activities than Cys and substantially contribute to redox signaling and energy metabolism. We have established simple evaluation methods that can detect polysulfides in proteins and inorganic polysulfides in cells and revealed that polysulfides abundantly expressed in normal hearts are dramatically catabolized by exposure to ischemic/hypoxic and environmental electrophilic stress, which causes vulnerability of the heart to mechanical load. Accumulation of hydrogen sulfide, a nucleophilic catabolite of persulfides/polysulfides, may lead to reductive stress in ischemic hearts, and perturbation of polysulfide catabolism can improve chronic heart failure after myocardial infarction in mice. This review focuses on the (patho)physiological role of sulfur metabolism in hearts, and proposes that sulfur catabolism during ischemic/hypoxic stress has great potential as a new therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ischemic heart failure.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Akiyuki Nishimura
- National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS), Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems, NINS, Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan.
| | - Xiaokang Tang
- National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS), Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems, NINS, Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan
| | - Liuchenzi Zhou
- National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS), Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems, NINS, Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan
| | - Tomoya Ito
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Yuri Kato
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan
| | - Motohiro Nishida
- National Institute for Physiological Sciences, National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS), Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; Exploratory Research Center on Life and Living Systems, NINS, Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; SOKENDAI (The Graduate University for Advanced Studies), Okazaki, 444-8787, Japan; Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, 812-8582, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mao X, Du Y, Sui R, Yu X, Zhu Y, Huang M. Quercetin conjugated PSC-derived exosomes to inhibit intimal hyperplasia via modulating the ERK, Akt, and NF-κB signaling pathways in the rat carotid artery post balloon injury. NANOMEDICINE : NANOTECHNOLOGY, BIOLOGY, AND MEDICINE 2024; 61:102763. [PMID: 38897395 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2024.102763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The primary challenge in percutaneous coronary interventions for vascular restenosis is the occurrence of restenosis, which is defined by the excessive proliferation of neointimal tissue. Herein, our research team suggests that exosomes obtained from PSC, when paired with quercetin (Q@PSC-E), successfully reduce neointimal hyperplasia in a Sprague-Dawley rat model. Furthermore, the physical properties of the synthesized Q@PSC-E were examined using UV-vis, DLS, and FT-IR characterization techniques. The rats were subjected to balloon injury (BI) utilizing a 2-Fr Fogarty arterial embolectomy balloon catheter. Intimal hyperplasia and the degree of VSMC proliferation were evaluated using histological analysis in the rat groups that received a dosage of Q@PSC-E at 30 mg/kg/d. Significantly, Q@PSC-E inhibited cell proliferation through a pathway that does not include lipoxygenase, as demonstrated by [3H] thymidine incorporation, MTT, and flow cytometry studies. Additionally, the data indicate that Q@PSC-E hinders cell proliferation by targeting particular events that promote cell growth, including the activation of Akt and NF-κB, disruption of cell-cycle progression and also obstructs the ERK signaling pathway.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xin Mao
- Department of Vascular surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121099, China
| | - Yaming Du
- Department of Vascular surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121099, China
| | - Rubo Sui
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121099, China
| | - Xiaodong Yu
- Department of Vascular surgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121099, China
| | - Yue Zhu
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121099, China
| | - Meiyi Huang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121099, China.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xu BX, Hu TY, Du JB, Xie T, Xu YW, Jin X, Xu ST, Jin HW, Wang G, Wang J, Zhen L. In pursuit of feedback activation: New insights into redox-responsive hydropersulfide prodrug combating oxidative stress. Redox Biol 2024; 72:103130. [PMID: 38522110 PMCID: PMC10973683 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Redox-responsive hydropersulfide prodrugs are designed to enable a more controllable and efficient hydropersulfide (RSSH) supply and to thoroughly explore their biological and therapeutic applications in oxidative damage. To obtain novel activation patterns triggered by redox signaling, we focused on NAD(P)H: quinone acceptor oxidoreductase 1 (NQO1), a canonical antioxidant enzyme, and designed NQO1-activated RSSH prodrugs. We also performed a head-to-head comparison of two mainstream structural scaffolds with solid quantitative analysis of prodrugs, RSSH, and metabolic by-products by LC-MS/MS, confirming that the perthiocarbamate scaffold was more effective in intracellular prodrug uptake and RSSH production. The prodrug was highly potent in oxidative stress management against cisplatin-induced nephrotoxicity. Strikingly, this prodrug possessed potential feedback activation properties by which the delivered RSSH can further escalate the prodrug activation via NQO1 upregulation. Our strategy pushed RSSH prodrugs one step further in the pursuit of efficient release in biological matrices and improved druggability against oxidative stress.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bi-Xin Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tian-Yu Hu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jin-Biao Du
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Tao Xie
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ya-Wen Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xin Jin
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Si-Tao Xu
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hao-Wen Jin
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guangji Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Jiankun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Le Zhen
- Key Laboratory of Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics, Haihe Laboratory of Cell Ecosystem, China Pharmaceutical University, 24 Tongjia Xiang, Nanjing, 210009, Jiangsu, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Tomonaga S, Ishimaru H, Isobe T, Ohshima E, Kitagaki S. Solubilization and stabilization of lipoic acid trisulfide by creation of various β-cyclodextrin clathrates. Biosci Biotechnol Biochem 2024; 88:601-607. [PMID: 38569654 DOI: 10.1093/bbb/zbae042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Lipoic acid trisulfide, a sulfane sulfur-containing trisulfide of α-lipoic acid, holds promise in pharmaceuticals, yet knowledge gaps persist regarding its synthesis, properties, and stability. Here, we synthesized the lipoic acid trisulfide with a purity exceeding 99% from α-lipoic acid on a gram scale and obtained novel β-cyclodextrin clathrates (84%-95% yield). Differential scanning calorimetry confirmed the inclusion of lipoic acid trisulfide in β-cyclodextrins. The resulting β-cyclodextrin clathrates exhibited significant improvements in water solubility and thermal stability. This pioneering study demonstrated a novel approach to the practical preparation of trisulfide and its β-cyclodextrin clathrates as active ingredients, paving the way for clinical development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shoichiro Tomonaga
- Kyowa Pharma Chemical Co., Ltd., Chokeiji, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Tempaku-ku, Nagoya, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Ishimaru
- Kyowa Pharma Chemical Co., Ltd., Chokeiji, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
| | - Takahiro Isobe
- Kyowa Pharma Chemical Co., Ltd., Chokeiji, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
| | - Etsuo Ohshima
- Kyowa Pharma Chemical Co., Ltd., Chokeiji, Takaoka, Toyama, Japan
- Kyowa Hakko Bio Co., Ltd., Otemachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinji Kitagaki
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Meijo University, Tempaku-ku, Nagoya, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Xu W, Xie B, Wei D, Song X. Dissecting hair breakage in alopecia areata: the central role of dysregulated cysteine homeostasis. Amino Acids 2024; 56:36. [PMID: 38772922 PMCID: PMC11108903 DOI: 10.1007/s00726-024-03395-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
In the initial stages of Alopecia Areata (AA), the predominance of hair breakage or exclamation mark hairs serves as vital indicators of disease activity. These signs are non-invasive and are commonly employed in dermatoscopic examinations. Despite their clinical salience, the underlying etiology precipitating this hair breakage remains largely uncharted territory. Our exhaustive review of the existing literature points to a pivotal role for cysteine-a key amino acid central to hair growth-in these mechanisms. This review will probe and deliberate upon the implications of aberrant cysteine metabolism in the pathogenesis of AA. It will examine the potential intersections of cysteine metabolism with autophagy, ferroptosis, immunity, and psychiatric manifestations associated with AA. Such exploration could illuminate new facets of the disease's pathophysiology, potentially paving the way for innovative therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen Xu
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yuhangtang Rd 866, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou Third Hospital, Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Bo Xie
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou Third Hospital, Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Dongfan Wei
- School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Yuhangtang Rd 866, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou Third Hospital, Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiuzu Song
- Department of Dermatology, Hangzhou Third People's Hospital, Affiliated Hangzhou Dermatology Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou Third Hospital, Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, West Lake Ave 38, Hangzhou, 310009, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Koike S, Ogasawara Y. Analysis and characterization of sulfane sulfur. Anal Biochem 2024; 687:115458. [PMID: 38182032 DOI: 10.1016/j.ab.2024.115458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 12/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
In the late 1970s, sulfane sulfur was defined as sulfur atoms covalently bound only to sulfur atoms. However, this definition was not generally accepted, as it was slightly vague and difficult to comprehend. Thus, in the early 1990s, it was defined as "bound sulfur," which easily converts to hydrogen sulfide upon reduction with a thiol-reducing agent. H2S-related bound sulfur species include persulfides (R-SSH), polysulfides (H2Sn, n ≥ 2 or R-S(S)nS-R, n ≥ 1), and protein-bound elemental sulfur (S0). Many of the biological effects currently associated with H2S may be attributed to persulfides and polysulfides. In the 20th century, quantitative determination of "sulfane sulfur" was conventionally performed using a reaction called cyanolysis. Several methods have been developed over the past 30 years. Current methods used for the detection of H2S and polysulfides include colorimetric assays for methylene blue formation, sulfide ion-selective or polarographic electrodes, gas chromatography with flame photometric or sulfur chemiluminescence detection, high-performance liquid chromatography analysis with fluorescent derivatization of sulfides, liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry, the biotin switch technique, and the use of sulfide or polysulfide-sensitive fluorescent probes. In this review, we discuss the methods reported to date for measuring sulfane sulfur and the results obtained using these methods.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shin Koike
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, 2-522-1 Noshio, Kiyose, Tokyo, 204-8588, Japan
| | - Yuki Ogasawara
- Department of Analytical Biochemistry, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, 2-522-1 Noshio, Kiyose, Tokyo, 204-8588, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Lindahl S, Shieh M, Zhang T, Guo C, Robinson JR, Sawa T, Xian M. Thioglucose-derived tetrasulfide, a unique polysulfide model compound. Redox Biol 2024; 70:103045. [PMID: 38245971 PMCID: PMC10831162 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2024.103045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2023] [Revised: 01/07/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Polysulfides have received increased interest in redox biology due to their role as the precursors of H2S and persulfides. However, the compounds that are suitable for biological investigations are limited to cysteine- and glutathione-derived polysulfides. In this work, we report the preparation and evaluation of a novel polysulfide derived from thioglucose, which represents the first carbohydrate-based polysulfide. This compound, thioglucose tetrasulfide (TGS4), showed excellent stability and water solubility. H2S and persulfide production from TGS4, as well as its associated antioxidative property were also demonstrated. Additionally, TGS4 was demonstrated to significantly induce cellular sulfane sulfur level increase, in particular for the formation of hydropersulfides/trisulfides. These results suggest that TGS4 is a useful tool for polysulfide research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Lindahl
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Meg Shieh
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Tianli Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Honjo 1-1-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Chunyu Guo
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Honjo 1-1-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Jerome R Robinson
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912, USA
| | - Tomohiro Sawa
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Honjo 1-1-1, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan.
| | - Ming Xian
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, Providence, RI, 02912, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
Significance: Routine exposure to xenobiotics is unavoidable during our lifetimes. Certain xenobiotics are hazardous to human health, and are metabolized in the body to render them less toxic. During this process, several detoxification enzymes cooperatively metabolize xenobiotics. Glutathione (GSH) conjugation plays an important role in the metabolism of electrophilic xenobiotics. Recent Advances: Recent advances in reactive sulfur and supersulfide (RSS) analyses showed that persulfides and polysulfides bound to low-molecular-weight thiols, such as GSH, and to protein thiols are abundant in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes. The highly nucleophilic nature of hydropersulfides and hydropolysulfides contributes to cell protection against oxidative stress and electrophilic stress. Critical Issues: In contrast to GSH conjugation to electrophiles that is aided by glutathione S-transferase (GST), persulfides and polysulfides can directly form conjugates with electrophiles without the catalytic actions of GST. The polysulfur bonds in the conjugates are further reduced by perthioanions and polythioanions derived from RSS to form sulfhydrated metabolites that are no longer electrophilic but rather nucleophilic, and differ from metabolites that are formed via GSH conjugation. Future Directions: In view of the abundance of RSS in cells and tissues, metabolism of xenobiotics that is mediated by RSS warrants additional investigations, such as studies of the impact of microbiota-derived RSS on xenobiotic metabolism. Metabolites formed from reactions between electrophiles and RSS may be potential biomarkers for monitoring exposure to electrophiles and for studying their metabolism by RSS. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 40, 679-690.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tianli Zhang
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Takaaki Akaike
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Sawa
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ravani S, Chatzianastasiou A, Papapetropoulos A. Using mechanism-based combinations of H 2S-donors to maximize the cardioprotective action of H 2S. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 397:1853-1864. [PMID: 37773523 PMCID: PMC10858931 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-023-02729-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/01/2023]
Abstract
H2S-donors are cardioprotective in ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Some H2S-donors exert their beneficial effects in a nitric oxide (NO)-dependent manner, while others act using NO-independent pathways. The aims of the present study were to (i) evaluate whether H2S-donors with distinct pharmacodynamic properties act synergistically in I/R injury and (ii) determine if H2S-donors remain cardioprotective in obese mice. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to 30 min of ischemia followed by 120 min of reperfusion. Donors were administered intravenously at the end of ischemia (Na2S: 1 μmol/kg, GYY4137: 25 μmol/kg, AP39: 0,25 μmol/kg), while the 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (10 mg/kg) inhibitor was given intraperitonially 1 h prior to ischemia. Infarct size was estimated by 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium staining, while the area at risk was calculated using Evans blue. All three donors reduced infarct size when administered as a sole treatment. Co-administration of Na2S/GYY4137, as well as Na2S/AP39 reduced further the I/R injury, beyond what was observed with each individual donor. Since inhibition of the H2S-producing enzyme 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase is known to reduce infarct size, we co-administered C3 with Na2S to determine possible additive effects between the two agents. In this case, combination of C3 with Na2S did not yield superior results compared to the individual treatments. Similarly, to what was observed in healthy mice, administration of a H2S-donor (Na2S or AP39) reduced I/R injury in mice rendered obese by consumption of a high fat diet. We conclude that combining a NO-dependent with a NO-independent H2S-donor leads to enhanced cardioprotection and that H2S-donors remain effective in obese animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stella Ravani
- Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Athanasia Chatzianastasiou
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Andreas Papapetropoulos
- Center of Clinical, Experimental Surgery & Translational Research, Biomedical Research Foundation of the Academy of Athens, Athens, Greece.
- Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Switzer CH. How super is supersulfide?: Reconsidering persulfide reactivity in cellular biology. Redox Biol 2023; 67:102899. [PMID: 37748320 PMCID: PMC10522965 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023] Open
Abstract
In an attempt to understand the cellular mechanisms of H2S signalling, recent research has focused on supersulfide (i.e., alkyl and inorganic hydropersulfide) formation and subsequent reactivity. While our understanding of supersulfides in biology has rapidly advanced, there are some chemical features of this unique functional group that require re-evaluation. Persulfides, such as glutathione hydropersulfide, have been called "supersulfide" as it is assumed that the alkyl hydropersulfide (RSSH) functional group is a superior nucleophile compared to the corresponding thiol (RSH) due to the alpha effect. However, recent quantum mechanical calculations and experimental data show that persulfides are not "super" nucleophiles, but rather potent electrophiles in cellular biology. It is proposed here that persulfides, via their electrophilic signalling effects, induces a cellular hormesis effect, which may explain the observed effects of altered RSSH production. Therefore, the electrophilic and thiol oxidant properties of persulfides should considered in cellular biology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H Switzer
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE1 7RH, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Barayeu U, Sawa T, Nishida M, Wei FY, Motohashi H, Akaike T. Supersulfide biology and translational medicine for disease control. Br J Pharmacol 2023. [PMID: 37872133 DOI: 10.1111/bph.16271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Abstract
For decades, the major focus of redox biology has been oxygen, the most abundant element on Earth. Molecular oxygen functions as the final electron acceptor in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, contributing to energy production in aerobic organisms. In addition, oxygen-derived reactive oxygen species including hydrogen peroxide and nitrogen free radicals, such as superoxide, hydroxyl radical and nitric oxide radical, undergo a complicated sequence of electron transfer reactions with other biomolecules, which lead to their modified physiological functions and diverse biological and pathophysiological consequences (e.g. oxidative stress). What is now evident is that oxygen accounts for only a small number of redox reactions in organisms and knowledge of biological redox reactions is still quite limited. This article reviews a new aspects of redox biology which is governed by redox-active sulfur-containing molecules-supersulfides. We define the term 'supersulfides' as sulfur species with catenated sulfur atoms. Supersulfides were determined to be abundant in all organisms, but their redox biological properties have remained largely unexplored. In fact, the unique chemical properties of supersulfides permit them to be readily ionized or radicalized, thereby allowing supersulfides to actively participate in redox reactions and antioxidant responses in cells. Accumulating evidence has demonstrated that supersulfides are indispensable for fundamental biological processes such as energy production, nucleic acid metabolism, protein translation and others. Moreover, manipulation of supersulfide levels was beneficial for pathogenesis of various diseases. Thus, supersulfide biology has opened a new era of disease control that includes potential applications to clinical diagnosis, prevention and therapeutics of diseases.
Collapse
Grants
- 22K19397 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05263 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 18H05277 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H04799 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05264 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05265 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H02659 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JPMJER2002 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JPMJFR205Y Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 22K19395 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 22H02772 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05269 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05267 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H02071 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- 21H05258 Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology
- JPMJCR2024 Japan Science and Technology Agency
- PE23749 Japan Society for the Promotion of Science
- JP21zf0127001 Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Uladzimir Barayeu
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Sawa
- Department of Microbiology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Motohiro Nishida
- Department of Physiology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Fan-Yan Wei
- Department of Modomics Biology and Medicine, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer (IDAC), Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hozumi Motohashi
- Department of Gene Expression Regulation, Institute of Development, Aging and Cancer, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takaaki Akaike
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Molecular Toxicology, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Noguchi N, Saito Y, Niki E. Actions of Thiols, Persulfides, and Polysulfides as Free Radical Scavenging Antioxidants. Antioxid Redox Signal 2023; 39:728-743. [PMID: 37154744 PMCID: PMC10619894 DOI: 10.1089/ars.2022.0191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Significance: The essential roles of thiol compounds as redox signaling mediators and protectors have been established. Recently, the roles of persulfides and polysulfides as mediators involved in numerous physiological processes have been revealed. Recent Advances: Recently, it became possible to detect and measure persulfides and polysulfides in human fluids and tissues and their physiological functions, including cellular signaling and protection against oxidative stress, have been reported, but the underlying mechanisms and dynamics remain elusive. Critical Issues: Physiological functions of thiol compounds have been studied, focusing primarily on two-electron redox reactions. In contrast, the contribution of one-electron redox mechanisms, that is, free radical-mediated oxidation and antioxidation, has received much less attention. Considering the important effects of free radical-mediated oxidation of biological molecules on pathophysiology, the antioxidant functions of thiol compounds as free radical scavengers are challenging issues. Future Directions: The antioxidant actions and dynamics of thiols, hydropersulfides, and hydropolysulfides as free radical scavenging antioxidants and their physiological significance remain to be established. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 39, 728-743.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noriko Noguchi
- The Systems Life Sciences Laboratory, Department of Medical Life Systems, Faculty of Life and Medical Sciences, Doshisha University, Kyotanabe, Japan
| | - Yoshiro Saito
- Laboratory of Molecular Biology and Metabolism, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Etsuo Niki
- Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology (RCAST), The University of Tokyo, Meguro-ku, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Fukuto JM. The chemistry of hydropersulfides (RSSH) as related to possible physiological functions. Arch Biochem Biophys 2023:109659. [PMID: 37263465 DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2023.109659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Hydropersulfides (RSSH) are oxidized thiol (RSH) derivatives that have been shown to be biologically prevalent with likely important functions (along with other polysulfur compounds). The functional utility of RSSH can be gleaned from their unique chemical properties. That is, RSSH possess chemical reactivity not present in other biologically relevant sulfur species that should allow them to be used in specific ways in biology as effector/signaling molecules. For example, compared to RSH, RSSH are considered to be superior nucleophiles, reductants and metal ligands. Moreover, unlike RSH, RSSH can be either reductants/nucleophiles or oxidants/electrophiles depending on the protonated state. It has also become clear that studies related to the chemical biology and physiology of hydrogen suflide (H2S) must also consider the effects of RSSH (and related polysulfur species) as they are biochemically linked. Herein is a discussion of the relevant chemistry of RSSH that can serve as a basis for understanding how RSSH can be used by cells to, for example, combat stresses and used in signaling. Also, discussed are some current experimental studies regarding the biological activity of RSSH that can be explained by their chemical properties.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jon M Fukuto
- Department of Chemistry, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, 21218, USA; Department of Chemistry, Sonoma State University, Rohnert Park, CA, 94928, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Lindahl S, Xian M. Recent development of polysulfides: Chemistry and biological applications. Curr Opin Chem Biol 2023; 75:102325. [PMID: 37216872 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpa.2023.102325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Polysulfides (RSSnSR, n ≥ 1) are a class of sulfane sulfur compounds that have gained significant recent attention due to their connections to hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and hydropersulfides (RSSH), which are known to play important roles in redox signaling. While the potential regulatory functions of polysulfides in biological systems have been recognized for a long time, understanding their interactions with H2S/RSSH have only recently begun. In this Mini Review, some of the most recent discoveries of polysulfides within biological contexts are summarized and these include their biological formation pathways, detection methods for animal and plant samples, properties, and unique functions. These studies have set up a solid foundation for understanding polysulfide biology, and more mechanistic details are expected to be discovered in the coming years.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Ming Xian
- Department of Chemistry, Brown University, RI, 02912, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nagy P. Recent advances in sulfur biology and chemistry. Redox Biol 2023:102716. [PMID: 37127439 DOI: 10.1016/j.redox.2023.102716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/03/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Péter Nagy
- Department of Molecular Immunology and Toxicology and the National Tumor Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Oncology, 1122, Budapest, Hungary; Department of Anatomy and Histology, Laboratory of Redox Biology, University of Veterinary Medicine, 1078, Budapest, Hungary; Chemistry Institute, University of Debrecen, 4012, Debrecen, Hungary.
| |
Collapse
|