Hydrogen Sulfide as a Regulator of Systemic Functions in Vertebrates

作者：Varaksin A A^*; Puschina E V

来源：Neurophysiology, 2011, 43(1): 62-72.

• hydrogen sulfide
• gasotransmitters
• visceral systems

This review deals with new published data and also with our own findings related to the physiological and pathological effects of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a gasotransmitter, which has recently attracted intense attention. In the organism, hydrogen sulfide is synthesized from cysteine with the involvement of pyridoxal-5'-phosphate-dependent enzymes, cystathionine-beta-synthase (CBS) or cystathionine-gamma-lyase (CSE). Under the action of H2S, ATP-dependent potassium channels (K-ATP) are activated in vascular smooth muscle cells, neurons, cardiomyocytes, and pancreatic beta-cells; this explains the important and extensive role of this agent in the control of vascular tone and contractile activity of cardiomyocytes, in the processes of neurotransmission, and in secretion of insulin. Possible roles of H2S-producing systems in the pathogenesis of arterial and pulmonary hypertension, Alzheimer's disease, and hepatocirrhosis are discussed. A description of some aspects of the action of H2S "beyond the nervous system" should, probably, also attract the interest of readers, allowing them to form a clearer view of the role of this gasotransmitter in the control of systemic functions.

• 出版日期2011-7