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. 2016 Jan 1;306(Pt 2):708-723.
doi: 10.1016/j.ccr.2015.06.001.

Biological signaling by small inorganic molecules

Debashree Basudhar  1 , Lisa A Ridnour  1 , Robert Cheng  1 , Aparna H Kesarwala  2 , Julie Heinecke  1 , David A Wink  1
Affiliations

Biological signaling by small inorganic molecules

Debashree Basudhar et al. Coord Chem Rev. .

Abstract

Small redox active molecules such as reactive nitrogen and oxygen species and hydrogen sulfide have emerged as important biological mediators that are involved in various physiological and pathophysiological processes. Advancement in understanding of cellular mechanisms that tightly regulate both generation and reactivity of these molecules is central to improved management of various disease states including cancer and cardiovascular dysfunction. Imbalance in the production of redox active molecules can lead to damage of critical cellular components such as cell membranes, proteins and DNA and thus may trigger the onset of disease. These small inorganic molecules react independently as well as in a concerted manner to mediate physiological responses. This review provides a general overview of the redox biology of these key molecules, their diverse chemistry relevant to physiological processes and their interrelated nature in cellular signaling.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Formation of physiologically relevant ROS by key enzymes and processes.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Biosynthesis of NO from oxidation of L-arginine by nitric oxide synthase.
Figure 3
Figure 3
The Chemical Biology of NO: direct and indirect reactions of NO with kinetically important cellular targets and their biological implications.
Figure 4
Figure 4
Pathways for biosynthesis of H2S from L-cysteine, homocysteine, cystathione and 3-mercaptopyruvate catalyzed by CBS, CSE and MST.
Figure 5
Figure 5
Overview of the chemical biology of H2S: biological targets of H2S and their biological implications.
Figure 6
Figure 6
Biosynthesis of CO from degradation of heme by heme oxygenase.
Figure 7
Figure 7
Crosstalk and interdependence of inorganic signaling molecules.
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