The role of hydrogen sulfide in lung inflammation

Abstract

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) has recently been identified as a biological mediator. It exhibits potent vasodilator activity most probably via vascular smooth muscle KATP channels. Recent studies have shown an important role of H2S in several models of inflammation, such as acute pancreatitis and associated lung injury, lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced endotoxemia and carrageenan-induced hindpaw edema. This review examines our current understanding of H2S as an inflammatory mediator, with particular reference to its role in lung inflammation. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.