Overview
Glutathione (GSH) is a γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine tripeptide and the principal non-protein thiol antioxidant in mammalian cells. It cycles between reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) forms via glutathione peroxidase and glutathione reductase.
Why it matters in research
Tissue GSH/GSSG ratios are an established readout of redox balance. Many oxidative-stress, mitochondrial-function, and detoxification studies use glutathione status as a primary outcome measure.
Notes for the lab
Reduced glutathione is oxidation-prone in solution; prepare working solutions fresh, work at lower pH, and protect from air exposure. Lyophilized material stores well at -20 °C, sealed and desiccated.