thiocyanate

**Thiocyanate** is the anion SCN⁻, known as a pseudohalide, and exists commonly as salts such as potassium thiocyanate and sodium thiocyanate. It is naturally present in mammals and acts as a key substrate in the lactoperoxidase system for the generation of hypothiocyanous acid (HOSCN), boosting innate host defense by providing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects in mammalian mucosa. In the past, thiocyanate salts were used as oral antihypertensive agents, demonstrating blood pressure–lowering effects, but this use has been discontinued due to toxicity concerns and the development of safer alternatives. Recent research highlights its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial roles, particularly relevant in pulmonary diseases such as cystic fibrosis. Its pharmacological actions stem mainly from modulation of redox reactions catalyzed by peroxidase enzymes, whereby it helps to generate HOSCN and regulate the impact on host tissues during infection and inflammation[1][3][7][9][11].

Other names

rhodaniderhodanateSCN