Description
MECHANISM OF ACTION
How Glutathione Works
Understanding the biological pathways and mechanisms
Antioxidant Defense
Glutathione is the body’s master antioxidant. As a tripeptide (glutamate-cysteine-glycine), it directly neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS), reducing oxidative stress and protecting cellular components from free radical damage.
Phase II Detoxification
Glutathione conjugates with toxins, heavy metals, and xenobiotics via glutathione S-transferase (GST) enzymes. This Phase II conjugation pathway is essential for hepatic detoxification and elimination of harmful compounds.
Immune Cell Support
Glutathione is critical for lymphocyte proliferation and natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxic activity. Research shows supplementation can double NK cell activity, enhancing immune surveillance capacity.
KEY DISCOVERY
The Master Antioxidant
Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide present in virtually every cell. It serves as the primary intracellular antioxidant, the key substrate for Phase II detoxification, and an essential modulator of immune cell function. Depleted GSH levels are associated with aging, oxidative stress conditions, and impaired detoxification.
CLINICAL DATA
What Research Has Shown
Published findings from peer-reviewed studies on Glutathione
35%
GSH Level Increase
2x
NK Cell Activity
1500mg
Per Vial
Antioxidant Capacity94%
Detoxification Support91%
Immune Enhancement88%
Cellular Protection86%
| GSH Increase | 35% in 54-subject study |
| NK Cell Activity | 2x increase observed |
| Study Size | 54 subjects (clinical trial) |
| Content | 1500mg per vial |
| Form | Reduced L-Glutathione |
| Purity | 99%+ |
SAFETY DATA
Safety Profile from Research
Reported adverse effects and safety considerations for Glutathione
<5%
Injection Site Discomfort
<3%
Mild Bloating
<2%
Temporary Cramping
<1%
Skin Lightening
Melanin Modulation
Glutathione may inhibit tyrosinase activity, potentially affecting melanin production. This skin-lightening effect should be considered and disclosed in research protocols.
Sulfur Sensitivity
As a sulfur-containing compound (cysteine residue), individuals with sulfur sensitivities may experience adverse reactions. Pre-screening for sulfur tolerance is recommended.
Glutathione is an endogenous compound naturally produced by the body. Supplemental glutathione has demonstrated an excellent safety profile in clinical studies at doses up to 1500mg.
COMPOUND PROFILE
Compound Information
What is Glutathione?
Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. It is the most abundant intracellular antioxidant in human cells and plays critical roles in oxidative stress defense, detoxification, immune function, and cellular homeostasis. The reduced form (L-Glutathione) is the biologically active form used in research.
| Chemical Name | L-γ-glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S |
| Molecular Weight | 307.32 g/mol |
| Content | 1500mg per vial |
| Form | Reduced L-Glutathione |
| Purity | 99%+ |
| Storage | -20°C (lyophilized) |
Storage & Stability
Store lyophilized glutathione at -20°C protected from light. After reconstitution, store at 2-8°C and use within 14 days. Glutathione is susceptible to oxidation; minimize air exposure during handling.
CURRENT STATUS
Where It Stands
Glutathione is one of the most extensively studied antioxidants with thousands of published papers. Clinical trials have demonstrated benefits for GSH levels, immune function, and detoxification capacity. Injectable glutathione bypasses the GI tract where oral bioavailability is typically limited.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Glutathione in research
What is glutathione?
Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide antioxidant naturally produced by every cell in the body. It consists of three amino acids — glutamate, cysteine, and glycine — and serves as the primary intracellular antioxidant and detoxification substrate.
Why injectable vs oral glutathione?
Oral glutathione has limited bioavailability due to degradation in the GI tract. Injectable (parenteral) glutathione bypasses first-pass metabolism, delivering the reduced active form directly to circulation for significantly higher bioavailability.
What did the 54-subject study show?
A clinical trial with 54 subjects demonstrated a 35% increase in blood GSH levels and approximately 2x increase in natural killer (NK) cell cytotoxic activity following glutathione supplementation.
What is the content per vial?
Each vial contains 1500mg of reduced L-Glutathione in lyophilized form, tested to 99%+ purity.
Is glutathione approved for therapeutic use?
While glutathione is sold as a research compound, it has GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status as a food component. This product is sold for research purposes only and is not approved by the FDA as a drug.
PUBLISHED RESEARCH
Sources & References
Peer-reviewed publications referenced in this overview
European Journal of Clinical Nutrition
Oral Glutathione Supplementation and Biomarkers of Oxidative Stress
Autoimmunity Reviews
Glutathione and Immune Function: A Systematic Review
Free Radical Biology and Medicine
Glutathione in Detoxification and Cellular Defense
Journal of Clinical Investigation
NK Cell Activity and Glutathione Status
Important Research Notice
This product is sold strictly for research, educational, and scientific purposes only. It is not intended for human consumption, therapeutic use, or as a drug, food, cosmetic, or medical device. Not approved by the FDA for any clinical or diagnostic use. All research must comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations. Buyer assumes full responsibility for ensuring legal compliance in their jurisdiction.
Verified Researcher –
Excellent purity and fast shipping. Glutathione exceeded my research expectations.