Abstract
Hydrogen sulfide (H(2)S), previously regarded as a toxic exhaust and atmospheric pollutant, has emerged as the third gaseous signaling molecule following nitric oxide (NO) and carbon monoxide (CO). Recent research has revealed significant biological effects of H(2)S in a variety of systems, such as the nervous, cardiovascular, and digestive systems. Additionally, H(2)S has been found to impact reproductive system function and may have therapeutic implications for reproductive disorders. This paper explores the relationship between H(2)S and male reproductive disorders, specifically erectile dysfunction, prostate cancer, male infertility, and testicular damage. Additionally, it examines the impact of H(2)S regulation on the pathophysiology of the female reproductive system, including improvements in preterm birth, endometriosis, pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction, unexplained recurrent spontaneous abortion, placental oxidative damage, embryo implantation, recovery of myometrium post-delivery, and ovulation. The study delves into the regulatory functions of H(2)S within the reproductive systems of both genders, including its impact on the NO/cGMP pathway, the activation of K(+) channels, and the relaxation mechanism of the spongy smooth muscle through the ROCK pathway, aiming to broaden the scope of potential therapeutic strategies for treating reproductive system disorders in clinical settings.