Glutathione

Glutathione is the most abundant non-protein thiol compound in animal cells and is central to maintaining cellular health and survival. It exists in two forms: Reduced Glutathione (⁴$text{GSH}$), the active antioxidant form, and Oxidized Glutathione (⁵$text{GSSG}$). The ratio of $text{GSH}$ to $text{GSSG}$ is a key indicator of a cell’s overall oxidative stress level.

Core Functions:

1. Direct Antioxidant Action: ¹⁰$text{GSH}$‘s sulfur-containing thiol group acts as a reducing agent, sacrificing itself to neutralize highly reactive free radicals and reactive oxygen species (ROS) that can damage DNA, proteins, and cell membranes.
2. Detoxification (Glutathione S-Transferase): It is a cofactor for the Glutathione S-transferase (GST) enzymes.¹² In this process, ¹³$text{GSH}$ binds to toxins, heavy metals, and harmful drug metabolites (like those from acetaminophen overdose), making them more water-soluble for easier excretion by the kidneys and liver.
3. Immune and Redox Regulation: It is essential for the function of immune cells (T-cells, NK cells) and helps maintain the reduced state of proteins, which is necessary for enzymatic function and ¹⁵$text{DNA}$ repair.

Supplementation and Health Claims:

$text{GSH}$ levels decline with age, poor diet, chronic stress, and various diseases.

Supplementation (oral, liposomal, or intravenous) is marketed to:

• Support Liver Health (especially in fatty liver disease).
• Reduce Oxidative Stress and slow aging processes.
• Improve Insulin Sensitivity.
• Skin Lightening/Brightening (due to its potential to shift melanin production from darker eumelanin to lighter pheomelanin).

However, oral bioavailability has traditionally been a challenge due to breakdown in the digestive tract, leading to the development of better-absorbed forms like Liposomal Glutathione and precursors like N-Acetylcysteine (NAC).