Hydrogen sulfide metabolism and its role in the development of periodontal diseases

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a signaling molecule that is actively synthesized in the tissues and regulates a wide range of physiological processes, namely cardiovascular, neuronal, immune, respiratory, gastrointestinal, liver, and endocrine systems, by influencing cellular signaling pathways and sulfhydration of target proteins. The influence of H2S signaling in cell cycle and cell death pathways is associated with tumor growth, angiogenesis, and neurodegenerative diseases. The relationship between H2S and oral cavity pathologies, especially periodontal diseases, is controversial, but should not be underestimated. Further research is needed in order to clarify the exact mechanisms and conditions, which cause the H2S molecule to exhibit cytoprotective/antioxidant or cytotoxic proprieties in the oral cavity.