Thiiranes: Intelligent Molecules for S-Persulfidation

Abstract

This study presents a global strategy for the transsulfuration of intracellular thiols (RSH) to persulfides (RSSH). Thiiranes comprising fluorenyl/diphenyl and malonate ester moieties directly convert intercellular RSH to low-molecular-weight RSSH in cells. The efficiency of transsulfuration is determined by counting the number of olefins produced as byproducts, providing ratiometric signals for the corresponding persulfide production. Specifically, the direct and rapid protein S-persulfidation by thiirane is validated. Thiiranes are expected to play a crucial role in the study of sulfur signaling.