Endogenous hydrogen sulfide-producing enzymes (CBS, CSE, 3-MST)

Endogenous hydrogen sulfide (H2S)-producing enzymes are a group of enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of H2S, a key gasotransmitter in mammalian physiology. The primary members include cystathionine beta-synthase (CBS), cystathionine gamma-lyase (CSE), and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST). These enzymes regulate a wide array of biological processes, including vasodilation, neuromodulation, antioxidant defense, and cellular bioenergetics. Dysregulation of these enzymes is implicated in various pathologies; for instance, their upregulation is often observed in certain cancers to promote tumor growth and bioenergetics, while their downregulation is linked to cardiovascular diseases like hypertension. Pharmacological strategies involve the use of small-molecule inhibitors, such as aminooxyacetic acid and propargylglycine, to reduce H2S levels in conditions like cancer or stroke. Conversely, H2S donors and enzyme stimulators are explored for their protective effects in ischemia-reperfusion injury and aging. Despite their therapeutic potential, challenges remain regarding the specificity of current inhibitors and the potential for systemic toxicity at high H2S concentrations.

Other names

H2S-generating enzymesH2S synthasesHydrogen sulfide-producing enzymesTranssulfuration pathway enzymes

Inhibition of enzyme activity to reduce H2S levels in hyper-productive states (e.g., cancer) or supplementation via donors/stimulators to restore H2S levels in deficiency states (e.g., hypertension).