The 99th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Pharmacological Society

Chair:Motohiro Nishida(Kyushu University Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences)

It has been nearly ten years since supersulfides were first identified as key players in energy metabolism and various physiological processes in higher organisms, including humans. Advances in LC/MS/MS analyses have made it possible to comprehensively profile both the metabolome and proteome, uncovering the presence of naturally occurring supersulfides across different species. As research builds on these discoveries, biological chalcogenides-which include sulfur-based supersulfides and selenium compounds-are now recognized as core elements of chalcogen super-complexes that have significant physiological importance. This evolving field stands to offer brand-new perspectives within redox biology, especially given the influence of bio-chalcogenides like supersulfides, or molecules featuring chains of sulfur atoms. Supersulfides are involved in several crucial physiological functions, such as protecting against lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis, supporting antioxidant defenses, and facilitating mitochondrial energy production. Therefore, pharmacological strategies aimed at bio-chalcogenides may provide new opportunities for preventing and treating a wide range of diseases, as well as for regulating human aging.