Biochemistry

Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) gas is produced in cells and tissues via various enzymatic processes. H₂S is an important signaling molecule in numerous biological processes, and deficiencies in endogenous H₂S production are linked to cardiovascular and other health complications. Quantitation of steady-state H₂S levels is challenging due to volatility of the gas and the need for specialized equipment. However, the capacity of an organ or tissue extract to produce H₂S under optimized reaction conditions can be measured by a number of current assays that vary in sensitivity, specificity and throughput capacity. We developed a rapid, inexpensive, specific and relatively high-throughput method for quantitative detection of H₂S production capacity from biological tissues. H₂S released into the head space above a biological sample reacts with lead acetate to form lead sulfide, which is measured on a continuous basis using a plate reader or as an endpoint assay.