Therapeutic potential of organosulfur compounds in pulmonary hypertension

Background

Sulfur-containing compounds derived from natural sources, including marine and terrestrial organisms, have garnered significant attention for their potential therapeutic applications in addressing chronic diseases such as pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Despite available treatments targeting the endothelin, prostacyclin, and nitric oxide pathways, PAH remains a progressive clinical condition.

Method

The characteristic features of PAH, including increased vascular resistance, right ventricular hypertrophy, and remodeling leading to heart failure, have spurred researchers to explore novel treatment approaches. Certain plant species, particularly those belonging to the allium family, have been found to produce sulfur-containing compounds such as cysteine sulfoxides and glucosinolates with protective properties.

Results

Organosulfur compounds (OSCs) have shown promise in reducing inflammatory mediators, including PGE2, NO, and TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and IL-17.

Conclusion

In this review, we delve into the therapeutic role of specific sulfur-containing compounds, namely sulforaphane, allicin, and hydrogen sulfide, in the treatment of PAH.