Role of hydrogen sulfide donors in cancer development and progression

In recent years, a vast number of potential cancer therapeutic targets have emerged. However, developing efficient and effective drugs for the targets is of major concern. Hydrogen sulfide (H S), one of the three known gasotransmitters, is involved in the regulation of various cellular activities such as autophagy, apoptosis, migration, and proliferation. Low production of H S has been identified in numerous cancer types. Treating cancer cells with H S donors is the common experimental technique used to improve H S levels; however, the outcome depends on the concentration/dose, time, cell type, and sometimes the drug used. Both natural and synthesized donors are available for this purpose, although their effects vary independently ranging from strong cancer suppressors to promoters. Nonetheless, numerous signaling pathways have been reported to be altered following the treatments with H S donors which suggest their potential in cancer treatment. This review will analyze the potential of H S donors in cancer therapy by summarizing key cellular processes and mechanisms involved.