Characterization of hydrogen sulfide and its synthases, cystathionine β-synthase and cystathionine γ-lyase, in human prostatic tissue and cells

Abstract

Objective: To investigate hydrogen sulfide and its synthases, cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), in human prostatic tissue and cells.

Methods: CBS and CSE in human prostatic tissue and cells were located using immunostaining. Western blot and a sulfur-sensitive electrode were used to evaluate the expression levels and catalytic activity of CBS and CSE. We analyzed the association between dihydrotestosterone-added or hormone-reduced medium-induced CBS/CSE protein levels with androgen receptor levels in prostate cancer lines. All experiments were repeated ≥3 times.

Results: Endogenous hydrogen sulfide and its synthases existed in various areas of human prostatic tissue and cells. Cell activity and CBS/CSE protein levels were greatest in the androgen-dependent prostate cancer cell LNCaP among all cells and downregulated by dihydrotestosterone.

Conclusion: Hydrogen sulfide and its synthases in human prostatic tissue and cells were modulated by dihydrotestosterone, which could suggest a potential therapy for prostatic disease.