Die vielen Seiten des Sulfids. Tödlich und doch lebensnotwendig

Hydrogen sulfide is highly toxic, but nevertheless it has several physiological functions. Animals from sulfide containing habitats are able to protect themselves from sulfide poisoning and furthermore use this reduced sulfur compound for ATP production. Life at the deep‐sea hydrothermal vents entirely depends on the oxidation of inorganic substrates, mainly sulfide. In humans sulfide acts as a gaseous signalling molecule. It is produced in many tissues and takes part in a number of important metabolic processes such as the regulation of blood pressure and insulin secretion. Several severe diseases are caused by dysfunctions in sulfur metabolism. Thus, a detailed knowledge of the reactions and effects of hydrogen sulfide is of considerable clinical relevance.