Hydrogen sulfide donors in research and drug development

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) has recently emerged as an important biological gasomediator as a result of numerous insightful studies. The use of H₂S releasing compounds has attracted much attention as they can exert crucial effects on a wide range of cellular signaling processes. Some of these effects are potentially exploitable in terms of anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects, as well as precise ion-channel regulation, cardiovascular protection and oxidation resistance. Unfortunately, the potential therapeutic effects of H₂S are controversial due to conflicting published results regarding its effects on cellular activities arising, perhaps in part, from the use of different H₂S donors. Therefore it is essential to review the most commonly used H₂S releasing compounds, some of which are currently in clinical trials along with their associated in vitro and/or in vivo biological effects.