ABSTRACT
Reactive sulfur species (RSS) have been recognized in the last two decades as very important molecules in redox regulation. They are involved in metabolic processes and, in this way, they are responsible for maintenance of health. This review summarizes current information about the essential biological RSS, including H2S, low molecular weight persulfides, protein persulfides as well as organic and inorganic polysulfides, their synthesis, catabolism and chemical reactivity. Moreover, the role of RSS disturbances in various pathologies including vascular diseases, chronic kidney diseases, diabetes mellitus Type 2, neurological diseases, obesity, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and in the most current problem of COVID-19 is presented. The significance of RSS in aging is also mentioned. Finally, the possibilities of using the precursors of various forms of RSS for therapeutic purposes are discussed.
Subject(s)
COVID-19 , Hydrogen Sulfide , Humans , Hydrogen Sulfide/metabolism , Sulfides , Sulfur/chemistry , Sulfur/metabolismABSTRACT
The SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic outbreak in 2019 resulted in the need to search for an effective and safe strategy for treating infected patients, relieving symptoms, and preventing severe disease. SARS-CoV-2 is an RNA virus that can cause acute respiratory failure and thrombosis, as well as impair circulatory system function. Permanent damage to the heart muscle or other cardiovascular disorders may occur during or after the infection. The severe course of the disease is associated with the release of large amounts of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Due to their documented anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiviral effects, reactive sulfur compounds, including hydrogen sulfide (H2S), lipoic acid (LA), N-acetylcysteine (NAC), glutathione (GSH), and some other lesser-known sulfur compounds, have attracted the interest of scientists for the treatment and prevention of the adverse effects of diseases caused by SARS-CoV-2. This article reviews current knowledge about various endogenous or exogenous reactive sulfur compounds and discusses the possibility, or in some cases the results, of their use in the treatment or prophylaxis of COVID-19.