Mammalian cells found to make and store sulfur rings for antioxidant defense

The Max Planck Institute for Polymer Research reports that a study with Tohoku University, published in Science, found mammalian cells make and store cyclooctasulfur (S₈). These eight-atom sulfur rings were found in particularly high concentrations in mitochondria and lipid droplets, the cells’ fat stores. The body can use this stored sulfur to produce hydropersulfides, compounds that act as antioxidants. The institute says further research is needed before the findings can be translated into medical applications.