Use of Phosphorodithioate-Based Compounds as Hydrogen Sulfide Donors

Synthetic hydrogen sulfide (H2S) donors are useful research tools as well as potential therapeutic agents. In this chapter, we report the detailed protocols for the synthesis and evaluation of a series of phosphorodithioate-based H2S donors. Fluorescence assays were used to determine H2S release from the donors in both aqueous buffers and in cultured cells. These donors were found to be slow-release donors, much like the well-known GYY4137. These donors also showed some protective effects against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-induced oxidative damage in myocytes.