Controlled release of hydrogen sulfide significantly reduces ROS stress and increases dopamine levels in transgenic C. elegans

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide, an endogenous signalling molecule, is central to several pathophysiological processes in mammalian systems. It scavenges reactive oxygen species and is known to ameliorate dopaminergic neuronal degeneration in neurotoxin-induced Parkinson's disease models. The rapid volatilization of H₂S from spontaneously releasing sulfide salts being a challenge, we describe peptide conjugates which exhibit tris(2-carboxyethyl)phosphine mediated “slow and sustained” H₂S release. These conjugates reduced hydrogen peroxide-induced oxidative stress and significantly increased dopamine levels in transgenic C. elegans.