Intracellular sulfur-containing metabolites in bacteria

Intracellular sulfur-containing metabolites in bacteria encompass a diverse group of low-molecular-weight thiols and related compounds that are critical for maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and protecting against oxidative stress. In many Gram-negative bacteria, glutathione (GSH) serves as the primary redox buffer, while other groups utilize specialized thiols such as mycothiol (MSH) in Actinobacteria or bacillithiol (BSH) in Firmicutes. These metabolites play essential roles in detoxifying reactive oxygen species, heavy metals, and antibiotics, thereby contributing to bacterial survival within the host environment and the development of antimicrobial resistance. While these metabolites themselves are not typically considered direct therapeutic targets, the biosynthetic enzymes and transport systems associated with them are major areas of research for developing novel antibiotics. Disrupting the balance of these sulfur-containing species can sensitize bacteria to existing drugs and host immune defenses.

Other names

Bacterial low-molecular-weight thiolsBacterial sulfur metabolomeIntracellular sulfur species

Not applicable as this is a broad class of metabolites rather than a specific drug target; however, drugs often target the enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of these metabolites (e.g., mycothiol or bacillithiol biosynthesis enzymes).