Glutathione

Product Description

What is Glutathione?

Glutathione (γ-L-Glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine; GSH) is a naturally occurring linear tripeptide (3 amino acids; MW ≈ 307.3 Da) composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine, first characterized through biochemical research by Frederick Gowland Hopkins in 1921. It is intended strictly for laboratory and research purposes.

Molecular & Structural Profile

Glutathione features an unusual γ-peptide linkage between the side-chain carboxyl group of glutamate and the amine group of cysteine, which makes it resistant to cleavage by most peptidases. The free thiol (–SH) group of the cysteine residue is the reactive center of the molecule and allows reversible oxidation to glutathione disulfide (GSSG). The GSH/GSSG ratio is widely used as a reference parameter of redox status in laboratory models.

Structural Features

Amino acid count: 3 residues (tripeptide)

Sequence: γ-Glu-Cys-Gly

Molecular weight: ~307.3 Da

Molecular formula: C10H17N3O6S

Structural class: Linear thiol-containing tripeptide

Redox partner: Glutathione disulfide (GSSG)

Areas of Active Scientific Investigation

Redox Biochemistry Research: Studies examining GSH/GSSG redox cycling and thiol-disulfide exchange in cellular models.

Enzyme Chemistry Research: Investigations into glutathione-dependent enzymes, including glutathione peroxidases (GPx), glutathione S-transferases (GST), and glutathione reductase.

Molecular Biology Research: Academic studies of glutathione biosynthesis pathways (γ-glutamylcysteine ligase and glutathione synthetase) in in vitro models.

Analytical Chemistry: Use as a reference standard for thiol quantification and redox assay calibration.

Regulatory & Research Context

Research-grade Glutathione is sold strictly for in vitro research and laboratory use only. It is not intended for human or veterinary use, consumption, or application of any kind. It is not approved by the FDA to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or condition. Not for use in any living organism.