What is glutathione?
A molecule made inside cells
Glutathione also know as the body's "Master Antioxidant" is a small molecule assembled from three amino acids: glutamate, cysteine and glycine. Its biological importance is a starting point for understanding the research, rather than evidence that a supplement will benefit a particular person.
GSH, GSSG and redox balance
Reduced glutathione is commonly abbreviated GSH; its oxidised disulphide form is GSSG. Cells use this system as part of redox regulation. Measurements depend on the sample and method, and a single result is not a diagnosis.
Synthesis and cellular roles
Two enzyme-mediated steps assemble glutathione. Precursor availability and enzyme regulation matter. Research examines glutathione in antioxidant systems, mitochondrial biology, conjugation reactions and immune-cell function.
From biology to human outcomes
A laboratory mechanism, an association in patients and a controlled intervention study answer different questions. A change in a glutathione marker does not by itself demonstrate improved health, establish an effective dose or prove a treatment for disease.
Independent reading
Lu SC. Glutathione synthesis. Biochimica et Biophysica Acta. 2013;1830:3143–3153. PubMed record. This review provides background biology; it is not a clinical treatment recommendation.