Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine (γ-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine). Often called the "master antioxidant," it is the most abundant intracellular thiol compound and essential for cellular defense against oxidative stress. Chemical Formula: C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S Molecular Weight: 307.32 g/mol Structure: γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine Active Group: Cysteine sulfhydryl (-SH) group The unique γ-peptide bond between glutamate and cysteine protects GSH from common peptidases. - Neutralizes reactive oxygen species, free radicals, peroxides, and lipid peroxides - The cysteine thiol donates electrons to reduce oxidants - GSH is oxidized to GSSG (glutathione disulfide) in the process - Glutathione reductase regenerates GSH from GSSG using NADPH - Glutathione Peroxidase (GPx): Catalyzes GSH-dependent reduction of H₂O₂ - Glutathione S-Transferase (GST): Conjugates GSH to electrophiles for detoxification - Glutaredoxin: Uses GSH for thiol-disulfide exchan
Glutathione: Master Antioxidant Research Guide
Comprehensive overview of Glutathione, the body's primary intracellular antioxidant tripeptide essential for cellular redox homeostasis, detoxification, and immune function.