Chiba University Deciphers Dual Mechanism for Detoxifying and Excreting Reactive Sulfur Species

A research group led by Lecturer Yasunori Fukumoto and Professor Yasumitsu Ogra at Chiba University has identified a three-step methylation pathway that detoxifies reactive sulfur species (RSS) into trimethylsulfonium (TMS) for urinary excretion. This pathway, involving the TPMT enzyme, works alongside the known mitochondrial oxidation route to form a dual control system. The findings provide a foundation for understanding reduction stress and could lead to personalized medical treatments for individuals with TPMT genetic variations.