Last reviewed: October 2026 · Cleared Peptides research team
Reduced glutathione (GSH) is the tripeptide γ-L-glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine and the most abundant low-molecular-weight thiol in animal cells. Its unusual γ-peptide bond between glutamate and cysteine protects it from ordinary peptidases.
Glutathione Structure and Identifiers
| Name | Glutathione (reduced) |
|---|---|
| Synonyms | GSH; γ-L-Glutamyl-L-cysteinylglycine |
| CAS number | 70-18-8 |
| PubChem CID | 124886 |
| Molecular formula | C10H17N3O6S |
| Molecular weight | ≈307.3 g/mol |
| Sequence | γ-Glu-Cys-Gly |
| Form | White powder |
Redox Chemistry
The cysteine thiol of GSH is oxidized to form glutathione disulfide (GSSG). The GSH/GSSG ratio is a standard indicator of cellular redox state, and GSH is the substrate for glutathione peroxidases and glutathione S-transferases.
Laboratory Applications
- GSH/GSSG ratio measurements
- Glutathione peroxidase and S-transferase assays
- Reducing agent in protein biochemistry
This summary describes laboratory research only and makes no claim about effects in humans or animals.
Purity Testing and Storage
Every lot of Glutathione supplied by Cleared Peptides is tested by an independent laboratory for identity and purity (or composition, for multi-component preparations), and the lot Certificate of Analysis is published on our COA page. Store Glutathione sealed at −20 °C, dry and protected from light. Handle according to your institution’s chemical-hygiene procedures.
Research materials referenced in this guide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between GSH and GSSG?
GSH is reduced glutathione; GSSG is the oxidized disulfide formed from two GSH molecules.
Is Glutathione for human use?
No. Cleared Peptides supplies Glutathione for laboratory research use only; it is not for human or veterinary use.
Selected References
Peer-reviewed literature on the compounds discussed in this guide, listed as scientific background for laboratory researchers. Citation does not imply endorsement by the authors or any use other than in-vitro research.
- Meister A. Glutathione metabolism. Methods Enzymol. 1995;251:3-7. PubMed 7651209 · DOI
- Bachhawat AK, et al. The glutathione cycle: Glutathione metabolism beyond the γ-glutamyl cycle. IUBMB Life. 2018;70(7):585-592. PubMed 29667297 · DOI
- Ribas V, et al. Glutathione and mitochondria. Front Pharmacol. 2014;5:151. PubMed 25024695 · DOI
Laboratory note: solubility depends on salt form and solvent. This guide does not state a single solubility figure. Handling of lyophilized material is described in the peptide storage guide.
Research Use Only Notice
This guide is provided for educational and laboratory reference purposes. It summarizes published, primarily in-vitro and structural research literature and does not describe, recommend or imply any use in humans or animals. Products sold by Cleared Peptides are for laboratory research use only; they are not drugs, foods, cosmetics or dietary supplements, are not FDA-approved, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, mitigate or prevent any disease. No dosing, administration or therapeutic information is provided.
