L-Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine, widely recognized as one of the body’s most important intracellular antioxidants. It serves as a cofactor for various antioxidant enzymes, including glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase, and is essential for neutralizing reactive oxygen species (ROS), detoxifying xenobiotics, and maintaining redox homeostasis in cells. (1)(2)Endogenous glutathione exists in both reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) forms, with the GSH:GSSG ratio serving as a biomarker of cellular oxidative stress. Research indicates that reduced glutathione may also participate in cell proliferation, apoptosis regulation, immune modulation, and mitochondrial protection. (3)
The reduced form (GSH) represents the active antioxidant state of glutathione. GSH participates in numerous biochemical pathways, including:• Detoxification of peroxides and lipid peroxides• Regeneration of other antioxidants (vitamin C and E)• Maintenance of thiol status in proteins and DNA• Chelation of heavy metals and reactive metabolites• Regulation of immune cell activity and cytokine signaling (4)(5)Low GSH levels have been associated with oxidative damage, aging, and several degenerative diseases. Supplementation or experimental administration of L-Glutathione has been studied for its potential to restore antioxidant balance and improve cellular resilience against oxidative stress.
| Compound | Type | Molecular Formula | Molecular Weight |
| L-Glutathione | Endogenous tripeptide antioxidant (γ-Glu-Cys-Gly) | C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S | 307.32 g/mol |
Synonyms: GSH, Reduced Glutathione, γ-L-Glutamyl-L-Cysteinylglycine
Research indicates that glutathione serves as a direct scavenger of hydroxyl radicals, hypochlorous acid, and lipid peroxides, while also regenerating other antioxidants through redox cycling. (6) A clinical study found that GSH supplementation increased plasma antioxidant capacity and decreased markers of oxidative damage in humans. (7)
Experimental studies have demonstrated that glutathione may regulate cytokine production and modulate lymphocyte proliferation. (8) In murine models, glutathione depletion was linked to suppressed immune function, while supplementation restored T-cell responsiveness and macrophage activation. (9)
Topical and systemic administration of GSH has been examined for potential skin brightening and photoprotective effects. In a randomized clinical trial, oral GSH (500 mg/day) reduced melanin index and improved skin elasticity in human participants after 12 weeks of administration. (10)
Studies suggest that glutathione may support hepatic detoxification by conjugating reactive metabolites via glutathione-S-transferase. In rodent models, GSH administration attenuated hepatocellular injury caused by acetaminophen and ethanol exposure. (11)
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