Cyanide has long been known as a highly lethal chemical used in warfare and poisonings. However, a groundbreaking study published in Nature Metabolism has revealed a new perspective on cyanide. Researchers from seven countries and 12 universities, including South Dakota State University, have discovered that cyanide not only remains poisonous but also plays a crucial role in normal cell function.
Brian Logue, a professor at SDSU, and Moustafa Khalaf, a research scientist, played a significant role in confirming and quantifying cyanide production in human cells. They utilized the Cyanalyzer, a patented technology from the Logue Lab, to confirm the production of cyanide in mammalian cells. This technology revealed the dual nature of cyanide, acting as both a toxin at high concentrations and a vital signaling molecule at lower concentrations.
Previous knowledge only associated cyanide with certain bacteria and plants, but the recent study demonstrated the natural production of cyanide in mammalian cells. Through experiments on mice and human cells, researchers observed consistent hydrogen cyanide presence in cells and organisms, indicating a role in fundamental physiological processes. The production of cyanide was found to be linked to the amino acid glycine, which stimulates its production in liver cells.
To prevent toxicity, the enzyme rhodanese plays a critical role in converting hydrogen cyanide into nontoxic salts, known as thiocyanates, which are then eliminated from the body. The research team emphasized that the dose of cyanide determines whether it acts as a poison or provides beneficial effects.
The discovery of cyanide’s protective effects during oxygen deprivation suggests potential therapeutic strategies for conditions like stroke. Additionally, insights into glycine and rhodanese from this research may lead to new therapies for diseases such as nonketotic hyperglycinemia, which causes excessive hydrogen cyanide production in the body.
Lead author Csaba Szabo believes that these findings will revolutionize the understanding of cell biology and metabolism. Future research will focus on exploring the precise roles of endogenous cyanide in health and disease, investigating its therapeutic potential while managing its toxicity carefully.
The study, titled “Regulation of mammalian cellular metabolism by endogenous cyanide production,” is a significant step forward in understanding the complex role of cyanide in the human body. This research opens up new possibilities for medical treatments and underscores the importance of reevaluating long-standing beliefs about this notorious chemical.
