Hydrogen sulfide and translational medicine

Hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S) along with carbon monoxide and nitric oxide is an important signaling molecule that has undergone large numbers of fundamental investigations. H(2)S is involved in various physiological activities associated with the regulation of homeostasis, vascular contractility, pro- and anti-inflammatory activities, as well as pro- and anti-apoptotic activities etc. However, the actions of H(2)S are influenced by its concentration, reaction time, and cell/disease types. Therefore, H(2)S is a signaling molecule without definite effect. The use of existing H(2)S donors is limited because of the instant release and short lifetime of H(2)S. Thus, translational medicine involving the sustained and controlled release of H(2)S is of great value for both scientific and clinical uses. H(2)S donation can be manipulated by different ways, including where H(2)S is given, how H(2)S is donated, or the specific structures of H(2)S-releasing drugs and H(2)S donor molecules. This review briefly summarizes recent progress in research on the physiological and pathological functions of H(2)S and H(2)S-releasing drugs, and suggests hope for future investigations.