Hydrogen sulfide: an old gas with new cardioprotective effects

Diabetic cardiovascular complications are reaching epidemic proportions and the risk of HF (heart failure) is increased 2–3-fold by diabetes mellitus. H₂S (hydrogen sulfide) is emerging as a new gaseous signalling molecule in the cardiovascular system which possesses multifactorial effects on various intracellular signalling pathways. The proven cardioprotective and vasodilator activities of H₂S warrant a detailed investigation into its role in diabetic cardiomyopathy. In the present issue of Clinical Science, Zhou et al. demonstrate an important therapeutic potential of the H₂S pathway in diabetic cardiomyopathy.