Glutathione – (70-18-8)

Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine, with the chemical formula C10H17N3O6S. It is a critical antioxidant found in plants, animals, fungi, and some bacteria, playing a key role in protecting cells from oxidative damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS), free radicals, peroxides, and heavy metals. Glutathione exists in two forms: reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG). The reduced form is the active antioxidant, while the oxidized form is a dimer of two glutathione molecules linked by a disulfide bond.

In addition to its antioxidant role, glutathione is involved in the metabolism of drugs, conjugation with xenobiotics, and the regulation of cellular signaling pathways. It is also crucial in the detoxification of methylglyoxal and formaldehyde, toxic byproducts of oxidative stress. Glutathione levels are often used as a biomarker for oxidative stress, with a decreased GSH/GSSG ratio indicating increased oxidative damage.

Glutathione has therapeutic potential in various diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and respiratory conditions. It is also used in winemaking to prevent browning by trapping caffeoyltartaric acid quinones. Despite its importance, oral bioavailability of glutathione is low due to degradation by proteases in the digestive tract. However, precursors like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can help replenish intracellular glutathione levels.

The above informationis displayed for information purpose only, and has not been reviewed by EON nor does EON attests or validates the accuracy nor does it constitutes a recommendation or validation.

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Glutathione
https://www.medchemexpress.com/L-Glutathione_reduced.html
https://www.medkoo.com/products/22751
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/glutathione