Glutathione

Glutathione is a sulfur-containing tripeptide, also called GSH, that participates in cellular redox chemistry.

Identity

Molecular formula

C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S

Average molecular weight

307.33 g/mol

Monoisotopic mass (calculated)

307.0838 Da

CAS number

70-18-8

PubChem CID

124886

Other names

Reduced glutathione · GSH · γ-L-Glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine

Identity data from: PubChem CID 124886

Research overview

Glutathione, commonly abbreviated GSH, is the reduced form of the tripeptide γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine. Its three building blocks are glutamate, cysteine and glycine, and the cysteine residue supplies the thiol group central to its redox chemistry. A review of mammalian glutathione metabolism describes sequential synthesis by the cytosolic enzymes γ-glutamylcysteine synthetase and GSH synthetase and identifies cysteine availability, enzyme activity and feedback from GSH as important controls [2]. The related disulfide form, GSSG, is considered together with GSH when researchers examine the redox state of animal cells [1][2]. The metabolism review also covers protein glutathionylation and the regulation of gene expression, protein synthesis and cytokine production [2].

The cited literature approaches this molecule through synthesis, chemical reactions and measurement. One review outlines the reduction of oxidants and the conjugation of electrophiles with GSH, as well as methods for assessing cellular glutathione status [1]. Another concentrates on the mitochondrial pool: glutathione is mainly synthesized in the cytoplasm and subsequently transported into mitochondria, where it participates in hydrogen peroxide metabolism [3]. That review examines mitochondrial transport, differences between tissues and the relationship between GSH/GSSG balance and several forms of cell death. The mitochondrial review discusses apoptosis, necroptosis and ferroptosis in relation to mitochondrial GSH and the GSH/GSSG ratio [3].

Laboratory storage and handling

Store the closed container cold, dry and protected from light under the conditions specified for the lot. Let it reach room temperature before opening to limit condensation. Avoid repeated freezing and thawing of laboratory stocks. Record storage history and lot identity alongside experiments, and use standard laboratory protective equipment when handling the material.

Questions about Glutathione

References

1. Glutathione: overview of its protective roles, measurement, and biosynthesis. Mol Aspects Med 2009. PMID 18796312
2. Glutathione metabolism and its implications for health. J Nutr 2004. PMID 14988435
3. Mitochondrial Glutathione in Cellular Redox Homeostasis and Disease Manifestation. Int J Mol Sci 2024. PMID 38279310

Identity data checked on 2026-09-24. Literature summaries describe published research models and are not specifications of any product lot.