Role of 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase in cancer

Abstract

The enzyme 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3-MST) is widely distributed across different biological entities and is essential for the production of hydrogen sulfide (H₂S). This enzyme functions both in the cytosol and mitochondria, and 3-MST mediates the reaction of 3-mercaptopyruvate (3-MP) with dihydrolipoic acid and thioredoxin to generate hydrogen sulfide. In addition to 3-MST, H₂S can also be produced through the actions of cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE). H₂S, a gaseous signaling molecule with therapeutic potential, has been found to have therapeutic and alleviating effects on various diseases, including cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and neurological disorders. While the roles of CBS and CSE in cancer have been extensively studied and well-characterized, relatively little information is available in the scientific literature regarding the function and significance of 3-MST in cancer. This article focuses on the role of 3-MST in breast cancer, lung cancer, bladder cancer, and colon cancer, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target.

Keywords: 3-Mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase; Cancer; Cystathionine β-synthase; Cystathionine γ-lyase; Hydrogen sulfide.