Glutathione
The body’s master antioxidant — a tripeptide studied extensively for its role in oxidative-stress defense and cellular detoxification.
Overview
Glutathione is a naturally occurring tripeptide (glutamate, cysteine, and glycine) synthesized in nearly every cell of the body. It’s one of the most extensively studied antioxidant molecules in biochemistry, often referred to as the body’s “master antioxidant” because of its central role in neutralizing reactive oxygen species and supporting the function of other antioxidant systems.
Mechanism of Action
Glutathione’s antioxidant activity comes from the reactive thiol (sulfur-hydrogen) group on its cysteine residue, which allows it to directly neutralize free radicals and serve as a cofactor for glutathione peroxidase enzymes that detoxify hydrogen peroxide and lipid peroxides. It also plays a central role in Phase II liver detoxification, conjugating with toxins and heavy metals to facilitate their excretion, and helps regenerate other antioxidants like vitamins C and E.
Cited Research
Oxidative stress & cellular aging
Decades of research link declining glutathione levels to oxidative stress markers associated with aging.
Liver detoxification pathways
Extensively studied for its role in Phase II conjugation reactions that neutralize xenobiotics and heavy metals.
Immune function research
Studied for its role in lymphocyte proliferation and immune-cell redox balance.
Neurodegeneration research
Reduced glutathione levels have been observed in several neurodegenerative disease models, driving research interest in restoration strategies.
This is a summary, not an exhaustive review. Search the primary literature yourself: Glutathione on PubMed →
Safety & Handling
Glutathione should be handled only by qualified personnel in a laboratory setting, stored and reconstituted per its Certificate of Analysis, and kept refrigerated once reconstituted. It is not evaluated or approved by the FDA for any human or veterinary use in this research-grade form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is glutathione a peptide?
Yes — technically it’s a tripeptide, one of the shortest in this library, made of three amino acids: glutamate, cysteine, and glycine.
Is glutathione legal to purchase?
It’s legal to sell and purchase as a research chemical for laboratory use in the U.S. The research-grade product sold here is not intended for human consumption.
How should it be stored?
Keep the lyophilized powder refrigerated or frozen and protected from light prior to reconstitution. Once reconstituted, keep refrigerated and use within the timeframe on its Certificate of Analysis.
Is this page medical advice?
No. This page summarizes published literature for research and educational context only. It does not recommend a dose, protocol, or use in humans or animals outside a laboratory setting.
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