Gasotransmitters in Modern Medicine: Promises and Challenges in the Use of Porous Crystalline Carriers

This perspective provides an overview of the growing interest in utilizing various gasotransmitters—small gaseous signaling molecules namely nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H₂S)—for several therapeutic applications, with emphasis on the potential use of porous materials as carriers to provide safe and controlled local delivery of these gases.

Abstract

Gas therapy using gasotransmitters is of exponential interest due to the growing recognition of gas signaling molecules that can be involved in multiple therapeutic actions. Finding suitable methods for delivering these molecules is crucial, and porous materials, notably metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), have shown exceptional potential as gas carriers, enabling safe and controlled local delivery. The challenges to translate these MOF therapies to clinical use require not only to validate the mechanisms of action and signaling pathways for the released gas molecules but also get a deep understanding into the MOF rational design, as it requires a combination of features to maximize the therapeutic outcomes. In this perspective, we outline the key criteria for designing suitable MOFs for gas delivery applications and highlight the expanding range of therapeutic opportunities these materials may offer. Readers can use these insights of MOF design and features to develop gasotransmitter therapies with realistic clinic interest.