The role of hypothiocyanous acid (HOSCN) in biological systems

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articlepeer-review

Hypohalous acids (HOX), produced by peroxidase-catalysed reactions of halide and pseudohalide ions with H(2)O(2), play an important role in the human immune system. However, there is compelling evidence that these oxidants also mediate host tissue damage and contribute to the progression of a number of inflammatory diseases. Although it is well established that significant amounts of hypothiocyanous acid (HOSCN) are formed under physiological conditions, the reactions of this oxidant with host biological systems are relatively poorly characterized. It is generally accepted that HOSCN is a mild oxidant that reacts selectively with thiols. However, it is becoming increasingly recognized that this selectivity can result in the induction of significant cellular damage, which may contribute to disease. This review will outline the formation and reactivity of HOSCN and the role of this oxidant in biological systems.

Original languageEnglish
JournalFree Radical Research
Volume43
Issue number12
Pages (from-to)1147-58
Number of pages12
ISSN1071-5762
Publication statusPublished - Dec 2009
Externally publishedYes

    Research areas

  • Animals, Apoptosis, Humans, Oxidants, Oxidative Stress, Thiocyanates, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Review

ID: 174497579