Glutathione (GSH, Ξ³-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine) is the most abundant intracellular antioxidant, present at 1β10 mM in most cells. It serves as the primary cellular defense against oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and electrophilic toxins. As a research compound, GSH is used to study oxidative stress modulation, glutathione redox cycling, Nrf2 pathway activation, detoxification, and immune cell function.
CAS 70-18-8 | MW 307.3 DaDirect electron donor to neutralize superoxide, hydroxyl radical, and hydrogen peroxide β the primary antioxidant mechanism.
Co-substrate for GPx enzymes that reduce lipid peroxides and HβOβ, with GSH oxidized to GSSG and recycled by GR.
Phase II conjugation via GSTs attaches GSH to electrophilic xenobiotics for elimination β critical liver detox mechanism.
T-cell proliferation and NK cell activity are dependent on intracellular GSH levels β key immune research endpoint.
Multiple studies confirm that exogenous GSH replenishes depleted intracellular levels in oxidatively stressed cells, restoring redox homeostasis and reducing apoptotic markers.
Free Radic Biol Med. 2002;33(9):1167β1178A randomized trial demonstrated oral GSH reduced melanin index in skin over 12 weeks, linked to MC1R pathway interference and tyrosinase inhibition.
Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2017;10:437β442Mischley et al. found intranasal GSH delivery improved motor scores in early Parkinson's disease over 3 months, with CNS antioxidant restoration as proposed mechanism.
Antioxid Redox Signal. 2017;28(1):16β23In vitro oxidative stress models: 0.1β10 mM in culture media. In vivo rodent studies: 50β500 mg/kg IP or IV. IV push protocols in human research: 600β1200 mg diluted. Endpoints: GSH/GSSG ratio (DTNB assay), ROS quantification (DCFH-DA), lipid peroxidation (MDA/TBARS), and immune cell proliferation.
| Full Name | Glutathione (GSH) β Ξ³-L-Glu-L-Cys-Gly |
| CAS Number | 70-18-8 |
| Molecular Formula | CββHββNβOβS |
| Molecular Weight | 307.3 Da |
| Purity | β₯99% by HPLC |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder |
| Storage | β20Β°C, desiccated, nitrogen-purged |
