Biosynthesis and Reactivity of Cysteine Persulfides in Signaling

Sulfide oxidation promotes hypoxic angiogenesis and neovascularization

Angiogenic programming in the vascular endothelium is a tightly regulated process for maintaining tissue homeostasis and is activated in tissue injury and the tumor microenvironment. The metabolic basis of how gas signaling molecules regulate angiogenesis is elusive. Here, we report that hypoxic upregulation of ·NO in endothelial cells reprograms the transsulfuration pathway to increase biogenesis of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a proangiogenic metabolite. However, decreased H2S oxidation due to sulfide quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR) deficiency synergizes with hypoxia, inducing a reductive shift and limiting endothelial proliferation that is attenuated by dissipation of the mitochondrial NADH pool. Tumor xenografts in whole-body (WBCreSqorfl/fl) and endothelial-specific (VE-cadherinCre-ERT2Sqorfl/fl) Sqor-knockout mice exhibit lower mass and angiogenesis than control mice. WBCreSqorfl/fl mice also exhibit decreased muscle angiogenesis following femoral artery ligation compared to control mice. Collectively, our data reveal the molecular intersections between H2S, O2 and ·NO metabolism and identify SQOR inhibition as a metabolic vulnerability for endothelial cell proliferation and neovascularization.

Development of a Bioorthogonal Click-to-Release Reaction for Hydrogen Polysulfide (H2Sn) Detection

In this study, we present an innovative "click-to-release" strategy for the design of highly specific H2Sn bioorthogonal probes that undergo a specific click reaction with H2Sn and release fluorophores by a following rearrangement. A library of cyclooctyne derivatives was established and successfully demonstrated the availability of the release strategy. Then, a model probe CM-CT was synthesized, which can achieve effective fluorophore release (>80%) in the presence of a H2Sn donor. To further validate the application of this class of probes, a new probe QN-RHO-CT based on Rhodamine 110 was developed. This probe showed good water solubility (>160 μM) and fast release kinetics and can achieve selective H2Sn detection in living cells. We used this probe to study the process of H2S-mediated protein S-persulfidation and demonstrated that excess H2S would directly react with protein persulfides to generate H2S2 and reduce the persulfides to thiols. Additionally, we elucidated the click-to-release mechanism in our design through a detailed mechanistic study, confirming the generation of the key intermediate α, β-unsaturated cyclooctanethione. This bioorthogonal click-to-release reaction provides a useful tool for investigating the function of H2Sn and paves the way for biological studies on H2Sn.

Quantification of persulfidation on specific proteins: are we nearly there yet?

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) played a pivotal role in the early evolution of life on Earth before the predominance of atmospheric oxygen. The legacy of a persistent role for H2S in life's processes recently emerged through its discovery in modern biochemistry as an endogenous cellular signalling modulator involved in numerous biological processes. One major mechanism through which H2S signals is protein cysteine persulfidation, an oxidative post-translational modification. In recent years, chemoproteomic technologies have been developed to allow the global scanning of protein persulfidation targets in mammalian cells and tissues, providing a powerful tool to elucidate the broader impact of altered H2S in organismal physiological health and human disease states. While hundreds of proteins were confirmed to be persulfidated by global persulfidome methodologies, the targeting of specific proteins of interest and the investigation of further mechanistic studies are still underdeveloped due to a lack of stringent specificity of the methods and the inherent instability of persulfides. This review provides an overview of the processes of endogenous H2S production, oxidation, and signalling and highlights the application and limitations of current persulfidation labelling approaches for investigation of this important evolutionarily conserved biological switch for protein function.

Digitonin-Loaded Nanoscale Metal-Organic Framework for Mitochondria-Targeted Radiotherapy-Radiodynamic Therapy and Disulfidptosis

The efficacy of radiotherapy (RT) is limited by inefficient X-ray absorption and reactive oxygen species generation, upregulation of immunosuppressive factors, and a reducing tumor microenvironment (TME). Here, the design of a mitochondria-targeted and digitonin (Dig)-loaded nanoscale metal-organic framework, Th-Ir-DBB/Dig, is reported to overcome these limitations and elicit strong antitumor effects upon low-dose X-ray irradiation. Built from Th6O4(OH)4 secondary building units (SBUs) and photosensitizing Ir(DBB)(ppy)2 2+ (Ir-DBB, DBB = 4,4'-di(4-benzoato)-2,2'-bipyridine; ppy = 2-phenylpyridine) ligands, Th-Ir-DBB exhibits strong RT-radiodynamic therapy (RDT) effects via potent radiosensitization with high-Z SBUs for hydroxyl radical generation and efficient excitation of Ir-DBB ligands for singlet oxygen production. Th-Ir-DBB/Dig releases digitonin in acidic TMEs to trigger disulfidptosis of cancer cells and sensitize cancer cells to RT-RDT through glucose and glutathione depletion. The released digitonin simultaneously downregulates multiple immune checkpoints in cancer cells and T cells through cholesterol depletion. As a result, Th-Ir-DBB/dig plus X-ray irradiation induces strong antitumor immunity to effectively inhibit tumor growth in mouse models of colon and breast cancer.

Generation of Thiosulfate, Selenite, Dithiosulfite, Perthionitrite, Nitric Oxide, and Reactive Chalcogen Species by Binuclear Zinc(II)-Chalcogenolato/-Polychalcogenido Complexes

A comparative bioinspired reactivity study of new binuclear Zn(II) complexes featuring coordinated thiolate, selenolate, trisulfide and diselenide in relation with (i) the generation of reactive sulfur/selenium species (RSS/RSeS), (ii) the oxygen dependent oxidation and disproportionation of polysulfide (Sn2-) to produce sulfite (SO32-), thiosulfate (S2O32-) and sulfide (S2-) by sulfur oxygenase reductase (SOR), and (iii) the reaction of Sn2- with nitrite (NO2-) to generate thionitrite (SNO-), perthionitrite (SSNO-) and nitric oxide (NO), is presented. The binuclear Zn(II)-thiolate/selenolate complexes could react with elemental sulfur to generate RSS/RSeS while similar reactions involving elemental selenium could not generate RSeS. The dizinc(II)-S3 and the dizinc(II)-Se2 complexes could react with dioxygen (O2) to generate binuclear Zn(II) complexes featuring coordinated thiosulfate (S2O32-) and selenite (SeO32-), respectively. Finally, unlike the nonreactive nature of the dizinc(II)-Se2 complex toward NO2-, reaction of the dizinc(II)-S3 complex with NO2- produced a new binuclear Zn(II) complex featuring a coordinated dithiosulfite (S3O2-) along with the formation of perthionitrite (SSNO-), of which the latter subsequently produced nitric oxide (NO) and S42-. The present work, thus, demonstrates the comparative reactivity of a series of binuclear Zn(II)-chalcogenolato/-polychalcogenido complexes for the generation of S2O32-, SeO32-, S3O2-, SSNO-, NO and RSS/RSeS.

Hydrogen sulfide maintains mitochondrial homeostasis and regulates ganoderic acids biosynthesis by SQR under heat stress in Ganoderma lucidum

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has recently been recognized as an important gaseous transmitter with multiple physiological effects in various species. Previous studies have shown that H2S alleviated heat-induced ganoderic acids (GAs) biosynthesis, an important quality index of Ganoderma lucidum. However, a comprehensive understanding of the physiological effects and molecular mechanisms of H2S in G. lucidum remains unexplored. In this study, we found that heat treatment reduced the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) in G. lucidum. Increasing the intracellular H2S concentration through pharmacological and genetic means increased the MMP level, mtDNAcn, oxygen consumption rate level and ATP content under heat treatment, suggesting a role for H2S in mitigating heat-caused mitochondrial damage in G. lucidum. Further results indicated that H2S activates sulfide-quinone oxidoreductase (SQR) and complex III (Com III), thereby maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis under heat stress in G. lucidum. Moreover, SQR also mediated the negative regulation of H2S to GAs biosynthesis under heat stress. Furthermore, SQR might be persulfidated under heat stress in G. lucidum. Thus, our study reveals a novel physiological function and molecular mechanism of H2S signalling under heat stress in G. lucidum with broad implications for research on the environmental response of microorganisms.

Transpersulfidation or H2S Release? Understanding the Landscape of Persulfide Chemical Biology

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.

The Activity of YCA1 Metacaspase Is Regulated by Reactive Sulfane Sulfur via Persulfidation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae

YCA1, the only metacaspase in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, plays important roles in the regulation of chronological lifespan, apoptosis, and cytokinesis. YCA1 has protein hydrolase activity and functions by cleaving itself and target proteins. However, there are few reports about the regulation of YCA1 activity. In this study, we observed that reactive sulfane sulfur (RSS) can inhibit the activity of YCA1. In vitro experiments demonstrated that RSS reacted with the Cys276 of YCA1, the residue central to its protein hydrolase activity, to form a persulfidation modification (protein-SSH). This modification inhibited both its self-cleavage and the cleavage of its substrate protein, BIR1. To investigate further, we constructed a low-endogenous-RSS mutant of S. cerevisiae, BY4742 Δcys3, in which the RSS-producing enzyme cystathionine-γ-lyase (CYS3) was knocked out. The activity of YCA1 was significantly increased by the deletion of CYS3. Moreover, increased YCA1 activity led to reduced chronological lifespan (CLS) and CLS-driven apoptosis. This study unveils the first endogenous factor that regulates YCA1 activity, introduces a novel mechanism of how yeast cells regulate chronological lifespan, and broadens our understanding of the multifaceted roles played by RSS.

Nonheme binuclear transition metal complexes with hydrosulfide and polychalcogenides

The intriguing chemistry of chalcogen (S, Se)-containing ligands and their capability to bridge multiple metal centres have resulted in a plethora of reports on transition metal complexes featuring hydrosulfide (HS-) and polychalcogenides (En2-, E = S, Se). While a large number of such molecules are strictly organometallic complexes, examples of non-organometallic complexes featuring HS- and En2- with N-/O-donor ligands are relatively rare. The general synthetic procedure for the transition metal-hydrosulfido complexes involves the reaction of the corresponding metal salts with HS-/H2S and this is prone to generate sulfido bridged oligomers in the absence of sterically demanding ligands. On the other hand, the synthetic methods for the preparation of transition metal-polychalcogenido complexes include the reaction of the corresponding metal salts with En2- or the two electron oxidation of low-valent metals with elemental chalcogen, often at an elevated temperature and/or for a long time. Recently, we have developed new synthetic methods for the preparation of two new classes of binuclear transition metal complexes featuring either HS-, or Sn2- and Sen2- ligands. The new method for the synthesis of transition metal-hydrosulfido complexes involved transition metal-mediated hydrolysis of thiolates at room temperature (RT), while the method for the synthesis of transition metal-polychalcogenido complexes involved redox reaction of coordinated thiolates and exogenous elemental chalcogens at RT. An overview of the synthetic aspects, structural properties and intriguing reactivity of these two new classes of transition metal complexes is presented.

Acidity of persulfides and its modulation by the protein environments in sulfide quinone oxidoreductase and thiosulfate sulfurtransferase

Persulfides (RSSH/RSS-) participate in sulfur metabolism and are proposed to transduce hydrogen sulfide (H2S) signaling. Their biochemical properties are poorly understood. Herein, we studied the acidity and nucleophilicity of several low molecular weight persulfides using the alkylating agent, monobromobimane. The different persulfides presented similar pKa values (4.6-6.3) and pH-independent rate constants (3.2-9.0 × 103 M-1 s-1), indicating that the substituents in persulfides affect properties to a lesser extent than in thiols because of the larger distance to the outer sulfur. The persulfides had higher reactivity with monobromobimane than analogous thiols and putative thiols with the same pKa, providing evidence for the alpha effect (enhanced nucleophilicity by the presence of a contiguous atom with high electron density). Additionally, we investigated two enzymes from the human mitochondrial H2S oxidation pathway that form catalytic persulfide intermediates, sulfide quinone oxidoreductase and thiosulfate sulfurtransferase (TST, rhodanese). The pH dependence of the activities of both enzymes was measured using sulfite and/or cyanide as sulfur acceptors. The TST half-reactions were also studied by stopped-flow fluorescence spectroscopy. Both persulfidated enzymes relied on protonated groups for reaction with the acceptors. Persulfidated sulfide quinone oxidoreductase appeared to have a pKa of 7.8 ± 0.2. Persulfidated TST presented a pKa of 9.38 ± 0.04, probably due to a critical active site residue rather than the persulfide itself. The TST thiol reacted in the anionic state with thiosulfate, with an apparent pKa of 6.5 ± 0.1. Overall, our study contributes to a fundamental understanding of persulfide properties and their modulation by protein environments.

Thiiranes: Intelligent Molecules for S-Persulfidation

This study presents a global strategy for the transsulfuration of intracellular thiols (RSH) to persulfides (RSSH). Thiiranes comprising fluorenyl/diphenyl and malonate ester moieties directly convert intercellular RSH to low-molecular-weight RSSH in cells. The efficiency of transsulfuration is determined by counting the number of olefins produced as byproducts, providing ratiometric signals for the corresponding persulfide production. Specifically, the direct and rapid protein S-persulfidation by thiirane is validated. Thiiranes are expected to play a crucial role in the study of sulfur signaling.

Analysis and characterization of sulfane sulfur

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.

Versatile roles of cysteine persulfides in tumor biology

Rewiring the transsulfuration pathway is recognized as a rapid adaptive metabolic response to environmental conditions in cancer cells to support their increased cysteine demand and to produce Reactive Sulfur Species (RSS) including hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and cysteine persulfide. This can directly (via RSS) or indirectly (by supplying Cys) trigger chemical or enzyme catalyzed persulfidation on critical protein cysteine residues to protect them from oxidative damage and to orchestrate protein functions, and thereby contribute to cancer cell plasticity. In this review key aspects of persulfide-mediated biological processes are highlighted and critically discussed in relation to cancer cell survival, bioenergetics, proliferation as well as in tumor angiogenesis, adaptation to hypoxia and oxidative stress, and regulation of epithelial to mesenchymal transition.

Advancements in Brain Research: The In Vivo/In Vitro Electrochemical Detection of Neurochemicals

Neurochemicals, crucial for nervous system function, influence vital bodily processes and their fluctuations are linked to neurodegenerative diseases and mental health conditions. Monitoring these compounds is pivotal, yet the intricate nature of the central nervous system poses challenges. Researchers have devised methods, notably electrochemical sensing with micro-nanoscale electrodes, offering high-resolution monitoring despite low concentrations and rapid changes. Implantable sensors enable precise detection in brain tissues with minimal damage, while microdialysis-coupled platforms allow in vivo sampling and subsequent in vitro analysis, addressing the selectivity issues seen in other methods. While lacking temporal resolution, techniques like HPLC and CE complement electrochemical sensing's selectivity, particularly for structurally similar neurochemicals. This review covers essential neurochemicals and explores miniaturized electrochemical sensors for brain analysis, emphasizing microdialysis integration. It discusses the pros and cons of these techniques, forecasting electrochemical sensing's future in neuroscience research. Overall, this comprehensive review outlines the evolution, strengths, and potential applications of electrochemical sensing in the study of neurochemicals, offering insights into future advancements in the field.

Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)/Polysulfides (H2Sn) Signalling and TRPA1 Channels Modification on Sulfur Metabolism

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and polysulfides (H2Sn, n ≥ 2) produced by enzymes play a role as signalling molecules regulating neurotransmission, vascular tone, cytoprotection, inflammation, oxygen sensing, and energy formation. H2Sn, which have additional sulfur atoms to H2S, and other S-sulfurated molecules such as cysteine persulfide and S-sulfurated cysteine residues of proteins, are produced by enzymes including 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3MST). H2Sn are also generated by the chemical interaction of H2S with NO, or to a lesser extent with H2O2. S-sulfuration (S-sulfhydration) has been proposed as a mode of action of H2S and H2Sn to regulate the activity of target molecules. Recently, we found that H2S/H2S2 regulate the release of neurotransmitters, such as GABA, glutamate, and D-serine, a co-agonist of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptors. H2S facilitates the induction of hippocampal long-term potentiation, a synaptic model of memory formation, by enhancing the activity of NMDA receptors, while H2S2 achieves this by activating transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) channels in astrocytes, potentially leading to the activation of nearby neurons. The recent findings show the other aspects of TRPA1 channels-that is, the regulation of the levels of sulfur-containing molecules and their metabolizing enzymes. Disturbance of the signalling by H2S/H2Sn has been demonstrated to be involved in various diseases, including cognitive and psychiatric diseases. The physiological and pathophysiological roles of these molecules will be discussed.

Disease-causing cystathionine β-synthase linker mutations impair allosteric regulation

Cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) catalyzes the committing step in the transsulfuration pathway, which is important for clearing homocysteine and furnishing cysteine. The transsulfuration pathway also generates H2S, a signaling molecule. CBS is a modular protein with a heme and pyridoxal phosphate-binding catalytic core, which is separated by a linker region from the C-terminal regulatory domain that binds S-adenosylmethionine (AdoMet), an allosteric activator. Recent cryo-EM structures reveal that CBS exists in a fibrillar form and undergoes a dramatic architectural rearrangement between the basal and AdoMet-bound states. CBS is the single most common locus of mutations associated with homocystinuria, and, in this study, we have characterized three clinical variants (K384E/N and M391I), which reside in the linker region. The native fibrillar form is destabilized in the variants, and differences in their limited proteolytic fingerprints also reveal conformational alterations. The crystal structure of the truncated K384N variant, lacking the regulatory domain, reveals that the overall fold of the catalytic core is unperturbed. M391I CBS exhibits a modest (1.4-fold) decrease while the K384E/N variants exhibit a significant (∼8-fold) decrease in basal activity, which is either unresponsive to or inhibited by AdoMet. Pre-steady state kinetic analyses reveal that the K384E/N substitutions exhibit pleiotropic effects and that the differences between them are expressed in the second half reaction, that is, homocysteine binding and reaction with the aminoacrylate intermediate. Together, these studies point to an important role for the linker in stabilizing the higher-order oligomeric structure of CBS and enabling AdoMet-dependent regulation.

Persulfide Biosynthesis Conserved Evolutionarily in All Organisms

Significance: Persulfides/polysulfides are sulfur-catenated molecular species (i.e., R-Sn-R', n > 2; R-Sn-H, n > 1, with R = cysteine, glutathione, and proteins), such as cysteine persulfide (CysSSH). These species are abundantly formed as endogenous metabolites in mammalian and human cells and tissues. However, the persulfide synthesis mechanism has yet to be thoroughly discussed. Recent Advances: We used β-(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethyl iodoacetamide and mass spectrometry to develop sulfur metabolomics, a highly precise, quantitative analytical method for sulfur metabolites. Critical Issues: With this method, we detected appreciable amounts of different persulfide species in biological specimens from various organisms, from the domains Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. By using our rigorously quantitative approach, we identified cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase (CARS) as a novel persulfide synthase, and we found that the CysSSH synthase activity of CARS is highly conserved from the domains Bacteria to Eukarya. Because persulfide synthesis is found not only with CARS but also with other sulfotransferase enzymes in many organisms, persulfides/polysulfides are expected to contribute as fundamental elements to substantially diverse biological phenomena. In fact, persulfide generation in higher organisms-that is, plants and animals-demonstrated various physiological functions that are mediated by redox signaling, such as regulation of energy metabolism, infection, inflammation, and cell death, including ferroptosis. Future Directions: Investigating CARS-dependent persulfide production may clarify various pathways of redox signaling in physiological and pathophysiological conditions and may thereby promote the development of preventive and therapeutic measures for oxidative stress as well as different inflammatory, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 39, 983-999.

Disulfides form persulfides at alkaline pH leading to potential overestimations in the cold cyanolysis method

It is well established that proteins and peptides can release sulfur under alkaline treatment, mainly through the β-elimination of disulfides with the concomitant formation of persulfides and dehydroalanine derivatives. In this study, we evaluated the formation of glutathione persulfide (GSSH/GSS-) by exposure of glutathione disulfide (GSSG) to alkaline conditions. The kinetics of the reaction between GSSG and HO- was investigated by UV-Vis absorbance, reaction with 5,5'-dithio-bis-(2-nitrobenzoic acid) (DTNB), and cold cyanolysis, obtaining an apparent second-order rate constant of ∼10-3 M-1 s-1 at 25 °C. The formation of GSSH and the dehydroalanine derivative was confirmed by HPLC and/or mass spectrometry. However, the mixtures did not equilibrate in a timescale of hours, and additional species, including thiol and diverse sulfane sulfur compounds were also formed, probably through further reactions of the persulfide. Cold cyanolysis is frequently used to quantify persulfides, since it measures sulfane sulfur. This method involves a step in which the sample to be analyzed is incubated with cyanide at alkaline pH. When cold cyanolysis was applied to samples containing GSSG, sulfane sulfur products that were not present in the original sample were measured. Thus, our results reveal the risk of overestimating the amount of sulfane sulfur compounds in samples that contain disulfides due to their decay to persulfides and other sulfane sulfur compounds at alkaline pH. Overall, our study highlights that the β-elimination of disulfides is a potential source of persulfides, although we do not recommend the preparation of GSSH from incubation of GSSG in alkali. Our study also highlights the importance of being cautious when doing and interpreting cold cyanolysis experiments.

Molecular engineering of benzenesulfonyl analogs for visual hydrogen polysulfide fluorescent probes based on Nile red skeleton

Hydrogen polysulfide (H₂S_n, n > 1) has a valuable function in various aspects of biological regulation. Therefore, it is of great significance to realize the visual monitoring of H₂S_n levels in vivo. Herein, a series of fluorescent probes NR-BS were constructed by changing types and positions of substituents on the benzene ring of benzenesulfonyl. Among them, probe NR-BS4 was optimized due to its wide linear range (0 ∼ 350 μM) and little interference from biothiols. In addition, NR-BS4 has a broad pH tolerance range (pH = 4 ∼ 10) and high sensitivity (0.140 μM). In addition, the PET mechanism of probe NR-BS4 and H₂S_n was demonstrated by DFT calculations and LC-MS. The intracellular imaging studies indicate that NR-BS4 can be successfully devoted to monitor the levels of exogenous and endogenous H₂S_n in vivo.

Synthesis of Sulfur-35-Labeled Trisulfides and GYY-4137 as Donors of Radioactive Hydrogen Sulfide

Hydrogen sulfide has emerged as a key gasotransmitter in humans and in plants, and the addition of exogenous hydrogen sulfide has many beneficial effects in vivo and in vitro. A challenge in investigating the effect of exogenous hydrogen sulfide is tracking the location of exogenous hydrogen sulfide on an organism and cellular level. In this article, we report the synthesis of three key chemicals (cysteine trisulfide, glutathione trisulfide, and GYY-4137) that release radiolabeled 35S as hydrogen sulfide. The synthesis started with the reduction of Na235SO4 mixed with Na2SO4 to generate hydrogen sulfide gas that was trapped with aq NaOH to yield radiolabeled Na2S. The Na2S was converted in one step to GYY-4137 at 65% yield. It was also converted to bis(tributyltin) sulfide that readily reacted with N-bromophthalimide to yield a monosulfur transfer reagent. Trisulfides were synthesized by reaction with the monosulfur transfer reagent and the corresponding thiols. The levels of radioactivity of the final products could be varied on a per gram basis to alter the radioactivity for applications that require different loadings of hydrogen sulfide donors.

Emerging Chemical Biology of Protein Persulfidation

Significance: Protein persulfidation (the formation of RSSH), an evolutionarily conserved oxidative posttranslational modification in which thiol groups in cysteine residues are converted into persulfides, has emerged as one of the main mechanisms through which hydrogen sulfide (H2S) conveys its signaling. Recent Advances: New methodological advances in persulfide labeling started unraveling the chemical biology of this modification and its role in (patho)physiology. Some of the key metabolic enzymes are regulated by persulfidation. RSSH levels are important for the cellular defense against oxidative injury, and they decrease with aging, leaving proteins vulnerable to oxidative damage. Persulfidation is dysregulated in many diseases. Critical Issues: A relatively new field of signaling by protein persulfidation still has many unanswered questions: the mechanism(s) of persulfide formation and transpersulfidation and the identification of "protein persulfidases," the improvement of methods to monitor RSSH changes and identify protein targets, and understanding the mechanisms through which this modification controls important (patho)physiological functions. Future Directions: Deep mechanistic studies using more selective and sensitive RSSH labeling techniques will provide high-resolution structural, functional, quantitative, and spatiotemporal information on RSSH dynamics and help with better understanding how H2S-derived protein persulfidation affects protein structure and function in health and disease. This knowledge could pave the way for targeted drug design for a wide variety of pathologies. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 39, 19-39.

The biological functions of protein S-sulfhydration in eukaryotes and the ever-increasing understanding of its effects on bacteria

As a critical endogenous signaling molecule, hydrogen sulfide may induce reversible post-translational modifications on cysteine residues of proteins, generating a persulfide bond known as S-sulfhydration. A systemic overview of the biofunctions of S-sulfhydration will equip us better to characterize its regulatory roles in antioxidant defense, inflammatory response, and cell fate, as well as its pathological mechanisms related to cardiovascular, neurological, and multiple organ diseases, etc. Nevertheless, the understanding of S-sulfhydration is mostly built on mammalian cells and animal models. We subsequently summarized the mediation effects of this specific post-transcriptional modification on physiological processes and virulence in bacteria. The high-sensitivity and high-throughput detection technologies are required for studying the signal transduction mechanism of H₂S and protein S-sulfhydration modification. Herein, we reviewed the establishment and development of different approaches to assess S-sulfhydration, including the biotin-switch method, modified biotin-switch method, alkylation-based cysteine-labelled assay, and Tag-switch method. Finally, we discussed the limitations of the impacts of S-sulfhydration in pathogens-host interactions and envisaged the challenges to design drugs and antibiotics targeting the S-sulfhydrated proteins in the host or pathogens.

The chemistry of hydropersulfides (RSSH) as related to possible physiological functions

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.

Reactive Sulfur Species Omics Analysis in the Brain Tissue of the 5xFAD Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder whereby oxidative stress augmentation results in mitochondrial dysfunction and cell death by apoptosis. Emerging evidence indicates that reactive sulfur species (RSS), such as glutathione hydropersulfide (GSSH), is endogenously produced, functions as potent antioxidants, and regulate redox signaling through the formation of protein polysulfides. However, the relationship between RSS and AD pathogenesis is not fully understood. In this study, we analyzed endogenous RSS production in the brain tissue of a familial AD model (5xFAD) mouse using multiple RSS-omics approaches. Memory impairment, increased amyloid plaques, and neuroinflammation have been confirmed in 5xFAD mice. Quantitative RSS omics analysis revealed that the total polysulfide content was significantly decreased in the brains of 5xFAD mice, whereas there was no significant difference in the levels of glutathione, GSSH, or hydrogen sulfide between wild-type and 5xFAD mice. In contrast, a significant decline in the protein polysulfide status was observed in the brains of 5xFAD mice, suggesting that RSS production and subsequent redox signaling might be altered during the onset and progression of AD. Our findings have important implications for understanding the significance of RSS in the development of preventive and therapeutic strategies for AD.

Synthesis of Sulfides and Persulfides Is Not Impeded by Disruption of Three Canonical Enzymes in Sulfur Metabolism

Reactive sulfur species, or persulfides and polysulfides, such as cysteine hydropersulfide and glutathione persulfide, are endogenously produced in abundance in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes, including mammals. Various forms of reactive persulfides occur in both low-molecular-weight and protein-bound thiols. The chemical properties and great supply of these molecular species suggest a pivotal role for reactive persulfides/polysulfides in different cellular regulatory processes (e.g., energy metabolism and redox signaling). We demonstrated earlier that cysteinyl-tRNA synthetase (CARS) is a new cysteine persulfide synthase (CPERS) and is responsible for the in vivo production of most reactive persulfides (polysulfides). Some researchers continue to suggest that 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST), cystathionine β-synthase (CBS), and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE) may also produce hydrogen sulfide and persulfides that may be generated during the transfer of sulfur from 3-mercaptopyruvate to the cysteine residues of 3-MST or direct synthesis from cysteine by CBS/CSE, respectively. We thus used integrated sulfur metabolome analysis, which we recently developed, with 3-MST knockout (KO) mice and CBS/CSE/3-MST triple-KO mice, to elucidate the possible contribution of 3-MST, CBS, and CSE to the production of reactive persulfides in vivo. We therefore quantified various sulfide metabolites in organs derived from these mutant mice and their wild-type littermates via this sulfur metabolome, which clearly revealed no significant difference between mutant mice and wild-type mice in terms of reactive persulfide production. This result indicates that 3-MST, CBS, and CSE are not major sources of endogenous reactive persulfide production; rather, CARS/CPERS is the principal enzyme that is actually involved in and even primarily responsible for the biosynthesis of reactive persulfides and polysulfides in vivo in mammals.

Proteome Dynamics of Persulfidation in Leaf Tissue under Light/Dark Conditions and Carbon Deprivation

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) acts as a signaling molecule in plants, bacteria, and mammals, regulating various physiological and pathological processes. The molecular mechanism by which hydrogen sulfide exerts its action involves the posttranslational modification of cysteine residues to form a persulfidated thiol motif. This research aimed to study the regulation of protein persulfidation. We used a label-free quantitative approach to measure the protein persulfidation profile in leaves under different growth conditions such as light regimen and carbon deprivation. The proteomic analysis identified a total of 4599 differentially persulfidated proteins, of which 1115 were differentially persulfidated between light and dark conditions. The 544 proteins that were more persulfidated in the dark were analyzed, and showed significant enrichment in functions and pathways related to protein folding and processing in the endoplasmic reticulum. Under light conditions, the persulfidation profile changed, and the number of differentially persulfidated proteins increased up to 913, with the proteasome and ubiquitin-dependent and ubiquitin-independent catabolic processes being the most-affected biological processes. Under carbon starvation conditions, a cluster of 1405 proteins was affected by a reduction in their persulfidation, being involved in metabolic processes that provide primary metabolites to essential energy pathways and including enzymes involved in sulfur assimilation and sulfide production.

Sulfide oxidation promotes hypoxic angiogenesis and neovascularization

Angiogenic programming in the vascular endothelium is a tightly regulated process to maintain tissue homeostasis and is activated in tissue injury and the tumor microenvironment. The metabolic basis of how gas signaling molecules regulate angiogenesis is elusive. Herein, we report that hypoxic upregulation of NO synthesis in endothelial cells reprograms the transsulfuration pathway and increases H 2 S biogenesis. Furthermore, H 2 S oxidation by mitochondrial sulfide quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR) rather than downstream persulfides, synergizes with hypoxia to induce a reductive shift, limiting endothelial cell proliferation that is attenuated by dissipation of the mitochondrial NADH pool. Tumor xenografts in whole-body WB Cre SQOR fl/fl knockout mice exhibit lower mass and reduced angiogenesis compared to SQOR fl/fl controls. WB Cre SQOR fl/fl mice also exhibit reduced muscle angiogenesis following femoral artery ligation, compared to controls. Collectively, our data reveal the molecular intersections between H 2 S, O 2 and NO metabolism and identify SQOR inhibition as a metabolic vulnerability for endothelial cell proliferation and neovascularization.

Highlights

Hypoxic induction of •NO in endothelial cells inhibits CBS and switches CTH reaction specificity Hypoxic interruption of the canonical transsulfuration pathway promotes H 2 S synthesis Synergizing with hypoxia, SQOR deficiency induces a reductive shift in the ETC and restricts proliferationSQOR KO mice exhibit lower neovascularization in tumor xenograft and hind limb ischemia models.

Thioredoxin-2 Regulates SqrR-Mediated Polysulfide-Responsive Transcription via Reduction of a Polysulfide Link in SqrR

Polysulfide plays an essential role in controlling various physiological activities in almost all organisms. We recently investigated the impact of polysulfide metabolic enzymes on the temporal dynamics of cellular polysulfide speciation and transcriptional regulation by the polysulfide-responsive transcription factor SqrR in Rhodobacter capsulatus. However, how the polysulfidation of thiol groups in SqrR is reduced remains unclear. In the present study, we examined the reduction of polysulfidated thiol residues by the thioredoxin system. TrxC interacted with SqrR in vitro and reduced the polysulfide crosslink between two cysteine residues in SqrR. Furthermore, we found that exogenous sulfide-induced SqrR de-repression during longer culture times is maintained upon disruption of the trxC gene. These results establish a novel signaling pathway in SqrR-mediated polysulfide-induced transcription, by which thioredoxin-2 restores SqrR to a transcriptionally repressed state via the reduction of polysulfidated thiol residues.

Polysulfide metabolizing enzymes influence SqrR-mediated sulfide-induced transcription by impacting intracellular polysulfide dynamics

Sulfide plays essential roles in controlling various physiological activities in almost all organisms. Although recent evidence has demonstrated that sulfide is endogenously generated and metabolized into polysulfides inside the cells, the relationship between polysulfide metabolism and polysulfide-sensing mechanisms is not well understood. To better define this interplay between polysulfide metabolism and sensing in cells, we investigated the role of polysulfide-metabolizing enzymes such as sulfide:quinone oxidoreductase (SQR) on the temporal dynamics of cellular polysulfide speciation and on the transcriptional regulation by the persulfide-responsive transcription factor SqrR in Rhodobacter capsulatus. We show that disruption of the sqr gene resulted in the loss of SqrR repression by exogenous sulfide at longer culture times, which impacts the speciation of intracellular polysulfides of Δsqr vs. wild-type strains. Both the attenuated response of SqrR and the change in polysulfide dynamics of the Δsqr strain is fully reversed by the addition to cells of cystine-derived polysulfides, but not by glutathione disulfide (GSSG)-derived polysulfides. Furthermore, cysteine persulfide (CysSSH) yields a higher rate of oxidation of SqrR relative to glutathione persulfide (GSSH), which leads to DNA dissociation in vitro. The oxidation of SqrR was confirmed by a mass spectrometry-based kinetic profiling strategy that showed distinct polysulfide-crosslinked products obtained with CysSSH vs. GSSH. Taken together, these results establish a novel association between the metabolism of polysulfides and the mechanisms for polysulfide sensing inside the cells.

Influence of a transient spark plasma discharge on producing high molecular masses of chemical products from L-cysteine

Cold atmospheric pressure plasmas are considered a forthcoming method in many research areas. Plasma modification of biomolecules has received much attention in addition to plasma-treated biomaterials. Hence, in this work, we operated a transient spark plasma (TSP) discharge to study its effect on the L-cysteine chemical structure. the TSP was configured in a pin-to-ring electrode arrangement and flowed by Ar gas. We also investigated the effect of two chemicals; dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) by the bubbling method to show how they can change the creation of new chemical bioproducts. Ultraviolet-Visible absorption spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Liquid chromatography-mass spectroscopy were used to investigate any changes in chemical bonds of cysteine structure and to depict the generation of new biomolecules. Based on the displayed results plasma-generated reactive species had a great role in the chemical structure of the cysteine. Entering DMSO and H₂O₂ into the plasma caused the creation of new products and the heaviest biomolecule was produced by the simultaneous addition of DMSO and H₂O₂. The results also predicted that some chemical products and amino acids with a higher value molecular masse produced from the polymerization process of cysteine solution. The strong oxidation process is responsible for the heavy chemical compounds.

Contribution of NRF2 to sulfur metabolism and mitochondrial activity

NF-E2-related factor 2 (NRF2) plays a crucial role in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis by regulating various enzymes and proteins that are involved in the redox reactions utilizing sulfur. While substantial impacts of NRF2 on mitochondrial activity have been described, the precise mechanism by which NRF2 regulates mitochondrial function is still not fully understood. Here, we demonstrated that NRF2 increased intracellular persulfides by upregulating the cystine transporter xCT encoded by Slc7a11, a well-known NRF2 target gene. Persulfides have been shown to play an important role in mitochondrial function. Supplementation with glutathione trisulfide (GSSSG), which is a form of persulfide, elevated the mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), increased the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and promoted ATP production. Persulfide-mediated mitochondrial activation was shown to require the mitochondrial sulfur oxidation pathway, especially sulfide quinone oxidoreductase (SQOR). Consistently, NRF2-mediated mitochondrial activation was also dependent on SQOR activity. This study clarified that the facilitation of persulfide production and sulfur metabolism in mitochondria by increasing cysteine availability is one of the mechanisms for NRF2-dependent mitochondrial activation.

Interactions of reactive sulfur species with metalloproteins

Reactive sulfur species (RSS) entail a diverse family of sulfur derivatives that have emerged as important effector molecules in H₂S-mediated biological events. RSS (including H₂S) can exert their biological roles via widespread interactions with metalloproteins. Metalloproteins are essential components along the metabolic route of oxygen in the body, from the transport and storage of O₂, through cellular respiration, to the maintenance of redox homeostasis by elimination of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Moreover, heme peroxidases contribute to immune defense by killing pathogens using oxygen-derived H₂O₂ as a precursor for stronger oxidants. Coordination and redox reactions with metal centers are primary means of RSS to alter fundamental cellular functions. In addition to RSS-mediated metalloprotein functions, the reduction of high-valent metal centers by RSS results in radical formation and opens the way for subsequent per- and polysulfide formation, which may have implications in cellular protection against oxidative stress and in redox signaling. Furthermore, recent findings pointed out the potential role of RSS as substrates for mitochondrial energy production and their cytoprotective capacity, with the involvement of metalloproteins. The current review summarizes the interactions of RSS with protein metal centers and their biological implications with special emphasis on mechanistic aspects, sulfide-mediated signaling, and pathophysiological consequences. A deeper understanding of the biological actions of reactive sulfur species on a molecular level is primordial in H₂S-related drug development and the advancement of redox medicine.

Cysteine hydropersulfide reduces lipid peroxidation and protects against myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury - Are endogenous persulfides mediators of ischaemic preconditioning?

Earlier studies revealed the presence of cysteine persulfide (CysSSH) and related polysulfide species in various mammalian tissues. CysSSH has both antioxidant and oxidant properties, modulates redox-dependent signal transduction and has been shown to mitigate oxidative stress. However, its functional relevance in the setting of myocardial ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) remains unknown. The present study was undertaken to (1) study the dynamics of production and consumption of persulfides under normoxic and hypoxic conditions in the heart, and (2) determine whether exogenous administration of the CysSSH donor, cysteine trisulfide (Cys-SSS-Cys) at the onset of reperfusion rescues functional impairment and myocardial damage by interfering with lipid peroxidation. Utilising a well-established ex vivo Langendorff murine model, we here demonstrate that endogenous tissue concentrations of CysSSH are upregulated when oxygen supply is compromised (global myocardial ischaemia) and rapidly restored to baseline levels upon reperfusion, suggestive of active regulation. In a separate set of experiments, exogenous administration of Cys-SSS-Cys for 10 min at the onset of reperfusion was found to decrease malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations, formation of 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) protein adducts and rescue the heart from injury. Cys-SSS-Cys also restored post-ischaemic cardiac function, improving both coronary flow and left ventricular developed pressure (LVDP). Taken together, these results support the notion that endogenous CysSSH plays an important role as a "redox preconditioning" agent to combat the oxidative insult in myocardial IRI.

The Effects of Antioxidant Nutraceuticals on Cellular Sulfur Metabolism and Signaling

Significance: Nutraceuticals are ingested for health benefits, in addition to their general nutritional value. These dietary supplements have become increasingly popular since the late 20th century and they are a rapidly expanding global industry approaching a half-trillion U.S. dollars annually. Many nutraceuticals are promulgated as potent antioxidants. Recent Advances: Experimental support for the efficacy of nutraceuticals has lagged behind anecdotal exuberance. However, accumulating epidemiological evidence and recent, well-controlled clinical trials are beginning to support earlier animal and in vitro studies. Although still somewhat limited, encouraging results have been suggested in essentially all organ systems and against a wide range of pathophysiological conditions. Critical Issues: Health benefits of "antioxidant" nutraceuticals are largely attributed to their ability to scavenge oxidants. This has been criticized based on several factors, including limited bioavailability, short tissue retention time, and the preponderance of endogenous antioxidants. Recent attention has turned to nutraceutical activation of downstream antioxidant systems, especially the Keap1/Nrf2 (Kelch like ECH associated protein 1/nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2) axis. The question now becomes, how do nutraceuticals activate this axis? Future Directions: Reactive sulfur species (RSS), including hydrogen sulfide (H2S) and its metabolites, are potent activators of the Keap1/Nrf2 axis and avid scavengers of reactive oxygen species. Evidence is beginning to accumulate that a variety of nutraceuticals increase cellular RSS by directly providing RSS in the diet, or through a number of catalytic mechanisms that increase endogenous RSS production. We propose that nutraceutical-specific targeting of RSS metabolism will lead to the design and development of even more efficacious antioxidant therapeutic strategies. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 68-94.

A Metabolic Paradigm for Hydrogen Sulfide Signaling via Electron Transport Chain Plasticity

Significance: A burgeoning literature has attributed varied physiological effects to hydrogen sulfide (H2S), which is a product of eukaryotic sulfur amino acid metabolism. Protein persulfidation represents a major focus of studies elucidating the mechanism underlying H2S signaling. On the contrary, the capacity of H2S to induce reductive stress by targeting the electron transport chain (ETC) and signal by reprogramming redox metabolism has only recently begun to be elucidated. Recent Advances: In contrast to the nonspecific reaction of H2S with oxidized cysteines to form protein persulfides, its inhibition of complex IV represents a specific mechanism of action. Studies on the dual impact of H2S as an ETC substrate and an inhibitor have led to the exciting discovery of ETC plasticity and the use of fumarate as a terminal electron acceptor. H2S oxidation combined with complex IV targeting generates mitochondrial reductive stress, which is signaled through the metabolic network, leading to increased aerobic glycolysis, glutamine-dependent reductive carboxylation, and lipogenesis. Critical Issues: Insights into H2S-induced metabolic reprogramming are ushering in a paradigm shift for understanding the mechanism of its cellular action. It will be critical to reevaluate the physiological effects of H2S, for example, cytoprotection against ischemia-reperfusion injury, through the framework of metabolic reprogramming and ETC remodeling by H2S. Future Directions: The metabolic ramifications of H2S in other cellular compartments, for example, the endoplasmic reticulum and the nucleus, as well as the intersections between hypoxia and H2S signaling are important future directions that merit elucidation. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 38, 57-67.

Generation and Physiology of Hydrogen Sulfide and Reactive Sulfur Species in Bacteria

Sulfur is not only one of the most abundant elements on the Earth, but it is also essential to all living organisms. As life likely began and evolved in a hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)-rich environment, sulfur metabolism represents an early form of energy generation via various reactions in prokaryotes and has driven the sulfur biogeochemical cycle since. It has long been known that H₂S is toxic to cells at high concentrations, but now this gaseous molecule, at the physiological level, is recognized as a signaling molecule and a regulator of critical biological processes. Recently, many metabolites of H₂S, collectively called reactive sulfur species (RSS), have been gradually appreciated as having similar or divergent regulatory roles compared with H₂S in living organisms, especially mammals. In prokaryotes, even in bacteria, investigations into generation and physiology of RSS remain preliminary and an understanding of the relevant biological processes is still in its infancy. Despite this, recent and exciting advances in the fields are many. Here, we discuss abiotic and biotic generation of H₂S/RSS, sulfur-transforming enzymes and their functioning mechanisms, and their physiological roles as well as the sensing and regulation of H₂S/RSS.

Structural and functional imaging of brains

Analyzing the complex structures and functions of brain is the key issue to understanding the physiological and pathological processes. Although neuronal morphology and local distribution of neurons/blood vessels in the brain have been known, the subcellular structures of cells remain challenging, especially in the live brain. In addition, the complicated brain functions involve numerous functional molecules, but the concentrations, distributions and interactions of these molecules in the brain are still poorly understood. In this review, frontier techniques available for multiscale structure imaging from organelles to the whole brain are first overviewed, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET), serial-section electron microscopy (ssEM), light microscopy (LM) and synchrotron-based X-ray microscopy (XRM). Specially, XRM for three-dimensional (3D) imaging of large-scale brain tissue with high resolution and fast imaging speed is highlighted. Additionally, the development of elegant methods for acquisition of brain functions from electrical/chemical signals in the brain is outlined. In particular, the new electrophysiology technologies for neural recordings at the single-neuron level and in the brain are also summarized. We also focus on the construction of electrochemical probes based on dual-recognition strategy and surface/interface chemistry for determination of chemical species in the brain with high selectivity and long-term stability, as well as electrochemophysiological microarray for simultaneously recording of electrochemical and electrophysiological signals in the brain. Moreover, the recent development of brain MRI probes with high contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and sensitivity based on hyperpolarized techniques and multi-nuclear chemistry is introduced. Furthermore, multiple optical probes and instruments, especially the optophysiological Raman probes and fiber Raman photometry, for imaging and biosensing in live brain are emphasized. Finally, a brief perspective on existing challenges and further research development is provided.

Detection of sulfane sulfur species in biological systems

Sulfane sulfur species such as hydropersulfides (RSSH), polysulfides (RSnR), and hydrogen polysulfides (H2Sn) are critically involved in sulfur-mediated redox signaling, but their detailed mechanisms of action need further clarification. Therefore, there is a need to develop selective and sensitive sulfane sulfur detection methods to gauge a better understanding of their functions. This review summarizes current detection methods that include cyanolysis, chemical derivatization and mass spectrometry, proteomic analysis, fluorescent probes, and resonance synchronous/Raman spectroscopic methods. The design principles, advantages, applications, and limitations of each method are discussed, along with suggested directions for future research on these methods. The development of robust detection methods for sulfane sulfur species will help to elucidate their mechanisms and functions in biological systems.

Cystine-dependent antiporters buffer against excess intracellular reactive sulfur species-induced stress

Reactive sulfur species (RSS) play a role in redox homeostasis; however, adaptive cell responses to excessive intracellular RSS are not well understood. Therefore, in this study, we generated transgenic (Tg) mice overexpressing cystathionine gamma-lyase (CSE) to produce excessive RSS. Contrary to expectations, tissue concentrations of RSS, such as cysteine persulfide (CysSSH), were comparable in both wild-type and CSE Tg mice, but the plasma concentrations of CysSSH were significantly higher in CSE Tg mice than in wild-type mice. This export of surplus intracellular RSS was also observed in primary hepatocytes of CSE Tg mice. Exposure of primary hepatocytes to the RSS generator sodium tetrasulfide (Na2S4) resulted in an initial increase in the intracellular concentration of RSS, which later returned to basal levels after export into the extracellular space. Interestingly, among all amino acids, cystine (CysSSCys) was found to be essential for CysSSH export from primary mouse hepatocytes, HepG2 cells, and HEK293 cells during Na2S4 exposure, suggesting that the cystine/glutamate transporter (SLC7A11) contributes, at least partially, to CysSSH export. We established HepG2 cell lines with knockout and overexpression of SLC7A11 and used them to confirm SLC7A11 as the predominant antiporter of CysSSCys and CysSSH. We observed that the poor efflux of excess CysSSH from the cell enhanced cellular stresses induced by Na2S4 exposure, such as polysulfidation of intracellular proteins, mitochondrial damage, and cytotoxicity. These results suggest the presence of a cellular response to excess intracellular RSS that involves the extracellular efflux of excess CysSSH by a cystine-dependent transporter to maintain intracellular redox homeostasis.

Real-Time Tracking of Electrical Signals and an Accurate Quantification of Chemical Signals with Long-Term Stability in the Live Brain

The development of in vivo analytical tools and methods for recording electrical signals and accurately quantifying chemical signals is a key issue for a comprehensive understanding of brain events. The electrophysiological microelectrode was invented to monitor electrical signals in free-moving brains. On the other hand, electrochemical assays with excellent spatiotemporal resolution provide an effect way to monitor chemical signals in vivo. Unfortunately, the in vivo electrochemical biosensors still have three limitations. First, many biological species such as reactive oxygen species (ROS) and neurotransmitters demonstrate large overpotentials at conventional electrodes. Thus, it is hard to convert the chemical/electrochemical signals of these molecules into electric signals. Second, the interfacial properties of the recognition molecules assembled onto the electrode surfaces have a great influence on the transmission of electric charge through the interface and the stability of the modified recognition molecules. Meanwhile, the surface of biosensors implanted in the brain is easily absorbed by many proteins present in the brain, resulting in the loss of signals. Finally, activities in the brain including neuron discharges and electrophysiological signals may be affected by electrochemical measurements due to the application of extra potentials and/or currents.This Account presents a deep view of the fundamental design principles and solutions in response to the above challenges for developing in vivo biosensors with high performance while meeting the growing requirements, including high selectivity, long-time stability, and simultaneously monitoring electrical and chemical signals. We aim to highlight the basic criteria based on a double-recognition strategy for the selective biosensing of ROS, H₂S, and H_nS through the rational design of specific recognition molecules followed by electrochemical oxidation or reduction. Recent developments in designing functionalized surfaces through a systematic investigation of self-assembly with Au-S bonds, Au-Se bonds, and Au≡C bonds for facilitating electrochemical properties as well as improving the stability are summarized. More importantly, this Account highlights the novel methodologies for simultaneously monitoring electrical and chemical signals ascribed to the dynamic changes in K⁺, Na⁺, and Ca²⁺ and pH values in vivo. Additionally, SERS-based photophysiological microarray probes have been developed for quantitatively tracking chemical changes in the live brain together with recording electrophysiological signals.The design principles and novel strategies presented in this Account can be extended to the real-time tracking of electrical signals and the accurate quantification of more chemical signals such as amino acids, neurotransmitters, and proteins to understand the brain events. The final part also outlines potential future directions in constructing high-density microarrays, eventually enabling the large-scale dynamic recording of the chemical expression of multineuronal signals across the whole brain. There is still room to develop a multifiber microarray which can be coupled with photometric methods to record chemical signals both inside and outside neurons in the live brains of freely moving animals to understand physiological processes and screen drugs.

Possible molecular basis of the biochemical effects of cysteine-derived persulfides

Persulfides (RSSH/RSS⁻) are species closely related to thiols (RSH/RS⁻) and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S/HS⁻), and can be formed in biological systems in both low and high molecular weight cysteine-containing compounds. They are key intermediates in catabolic and biosynthetic processes, and have been proposed to participate in the transduction of hydrogen sulfide effects. Persulfides are acidic, more acidic than thiols, and the persulfide anions are expected to be the predominant species at neutral pH. The persulfide anion has high nucleophilicity, due in part to the alpha effect, i.e., the increased reactivity of a nucleophile when the neighboring atom has high electron density. In addition, persulfides have electrophilic character, a property that is absent in both thiols and hydrogen sulfide. In this article, the biochemistry of persulfides is described, and the possible ways in which the formation of a persulfide could impact on the properties of the biomolecule involved are discussed.

Recent advances in small-molecule fluorescent probes for studying ferroptosis

Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent, non-apoptotic form of programmed cell death driven by excessive lipid peroxidation (LPO). Mounting evidence suggests that the unique modality of cell death is involved in the development and progression of several diseases including cancer, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), neurodegenerative disorders, etc. However, the pathogenesis and signalling pathways of ferroptosis are not fully understood, possibly due to the lack of robust tools for the highly selective and sensitive imaging of ferroptosis analytes in complex living systems. Up to now, various small-molecule fluorescent probes have been applied as promising chemosensors for studying ferroptosis through tracking the biomolecules or microenvironment-related parameters in vitro and in vivo. In this review, we comprehensively reviewed the recent development of small-molecule fluorescent probes for studying ferroptosis, with a focus on the analytes, design strategies and bioimaging applications. We also provided new insights to overcome the major challenges in this emerging field.

Photochemical Release of Hydropersulfides

Hydropersulfides (RSSH) have received significant interest in the field of redox biology because of their intriguing biochemical properties. However, because RSSH are inherently unstable, their study is challenging, and as a result, the details of their physiological roles remain ill-defined. Herein, we report strategies to release RSSH utilizing photoremovable protecting groups. RSSH protection with the well-established p-hydroxyphenacyl (pHP) photoprotecting group resulted in inefficient RSSH photorelease along with complex chemistry. Therefore, an alternative precursor was examined in which a self-immolative linker was inserted between the pHP group and RSSH, providing nearly quantitative RSSH release following photolysis at 365 nm. Inspired by these results, we also synthesized an analogous precursor derivatized with 7-diethylaminocoumarin (DEACM), a visible light-cleavable photoprotecting group. Photolysis of this precursor at 420 nm led to efficient RSSH release, and in vitro experiments demonstrated intracellular RSSH delivery in breast cancer MCF-7 cells.

Hydrogen sulfide ameliorated preeclampsia via suppression of toll-like receptor 4-activated inflammation in the rostral ventrolateral medulla of rats

This study aims to determine whether toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4)-mediated inflammation in rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM) causes sympathetic overactivity leading to preeclampsia (PE) and if TLR4 inhibition with hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) would reduce PE severity. Thirty patients with PE and 30 pregnant controls were involved. PE in rats was induced through deoxycorticosterone acetate and normal saline. NaHS (donor of H₂S), lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (TLR4 agonist), and TAK-242 (TLR4 inhibitor) were injected in lateral cerebral ventricle to investigate their effect on microglia-mediated inflammation in RVLM, sympathetic activation, and PE symptoms. In patients with PE, plasma levels of NE, TNF-α, and interleukin-1β were high compared with those of controls, whereas levels of H₂S were low. Rats with PE showed an increased amount of renal sympathetic nerve activity and plasma levels of NE, with decreased H₂S levels in RVLM. Microglia-mediated inflammation was observed in the RVLM of PE rats. Central infusion of LPS in pregnant rats induced microglia-mediated inflammation, sympathetic nervous tension, and PE-like symptoms, whereas TAK-242 reduced PE symptoms. NaHS treatment lessened microglia-mediated inflammation in the RVLM, sympathetic tension, and symptoms of PE both in PE rats and LPS-treating pregnant rats.These results suggest that inflammation in the RVLM caused by microglial activation might contribute to the progression of PE via an overactive sympathetic system. H₂S could reduce PE via inhibiting inflammation in the RVLM. These results might provide a new target for the treatment of PE.

A Whiff of Sulfur: One Wind a Day Keeps the Doctor Away

Reactive Sulfur Species (RSS), such as allicin from garlic or sulforaphane from broccoli, are fre-quently associated with biological activities and possible health benefits in animals and humans. Among these Organic Sulfur Compounds (OSCs) found in many plants and fungi, the Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs) feature prominently, not only because of their often-pungent smell, but also because they are able to access places which solids and solutions cannot reach that easily. Indeed, inorganic RSS such as hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂) can be used to lit-erally fumigate entire rooms and areas. Similarly, metabolites of garlic, such as allyl methyl sulfide (AMS), are formed metabolically in humans in lower concentrations and reach the airways from inside the body as part of one’s breath. Curiously, H₂S is also formed in the gastrointestinal tract by gut bacteria, and the question of if and for which purpose this gas then crosses the barriers and enters the body is indeed a delicate matter for equally delicate studies. In any case, nature is surprisingly rich in such VSCs, as fruits (for instance, the infamous durian) demonstrate, and therefore these VSCs represent a promising group of compounds for further studies.

Urinary Thioredoxin as a Biomarker of Renal Redox Dysregulation and a Companion Diagnostic to Identify Responders to Redox-Modulating Therapeutics

Significance: The development and progression of renal diseases, including acute kidney injury (AKI) and chronic kidney disease (CKD), are the result of heterogeneous pathophysiology that reflects a range of environmental factors and, in a lesser extent, genetic mutations. The pathophysiology specific to most kidney diseases is not currently identified; therefore, these diseases are diagnosed based on non-pathological factors. For that reason, pathophysiology-based companion diagnostics for selection of pathophysiology-targeted treatments have not been available, which impedes personalized medicine in kidney disease. Recent Advances: Pathophysiology-targeted therapeutic agents are now being developed for the treatment of redox dysregulation. Redox modulation therapeutics, including bardoxolone methyl, suppresses the onset and progression of AKI and CKD. On the other hand, pathophysiology-targeted diagnostics for renal redox dysregulation are also being developed. Urinary thioredoxin (TXN) is a biomarker that can be used to diagnose tubular redox dysregulation. AKI causes oxidation and urinary excretion of TXN, which depletes TXN from the tubules, resulting in tubular redox dysregulation. Urinary TXN is selectively elevated at the onset of AKI and correlates with the progression of CKD in diabetic nephropathy. Critical Issues: Diagnostic methods should provide information about molecular mechanisms that aid in the selection of appropriate therapies to improve the prognosis of kidney disease. Future Directions: A specific diagnostic method enabling detection of redox dysregulation based on pathological molecular mechanisms is much needed and could provide the first step toward personalized medicine in kidney disease. Urinary TXN is a candidate for a companion diagnostic method to identify responders to redox-modulating therapeutics. Antioxid. Redox Signal. 36, 1051-1065.

Persulfide-Responsive Transcription Factor SqrR Regulates Gene Transfer and Biofilm Formation via the Metabolic Modulation of Cyclic di-GMP in Rhodobacter capsulatus

Bacterial phage-like particles (gene transfer agents-GTAs) are widely employed as a crucial genetic vector in horizontal gene transfer. GTA-mediated gene transfer is induced in response to various stresses; however, regulatory mechanisms are poorly understood. We found that the persulfide-responsive transcription factor SqrR may repress the expression of several GTA-related genes in the photosynthetic bacterium Rhodobacter capsulatus. Here, we show that the sqrR deletion mutant (ΔsqrR) produces higher amounts of intra- and extracellular GTA and gene transfer activity than the wild type (WT). The transcript levels of GTA-related genes are also increased in ΔsqrR. In spite of the presumption that GTA-related genes are regulated in response to sulfide by SqrR, treatment with sulfide did not alter the transcript levels of these genes in the WT strain. Surprisingly, hydrogen peroxide increased the transcript levels of GTA-related genes in the WT, and this alteration was abolished in the ΔsqrR strain. Moreover, the absence of SqrR changed the intracellular cyclic dimeric GMP (c-di-GMP) levels, and the amount of c-di-GMP was correlated with GTA activity and biofilm formation. These results suggest that SqrR is related to the repression of GTA production and the activation of biofilm formation via control of the intracellular c-di-GMP levels.

Hydrogen sulfide-induced post-translational modification as a potential drug target

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is one of the three known gas signal transducers, and since its potential physiological role was reported, the literature on H₂S has been increasing. H₂S is involved in processes such as vasodilation, neurotransmission, angiogenesis, inflammation, and the prevention of ischemia-reperfusion injury, and its mechanism remains to be further studied. At present, the role of post-translational processing of proteins has been considered as a possible mechanism for the involvement of H₂S in a variety of physiological processes. Current studies have shown that H₂S is involved in S-sulfhydration, phosphorylation, and S-nitrosylation of proteins, etc. This paper focuses on the effects of protein modification involving H₂S on physiological and pathological processes, looking forward to providing guidance for subsequent research.