Total Glutathione details
What Total Glutathione shows
Glutathione is a small molecule made by your cells from three amino acids, and it is one of the body's main antioxidants. It helps neutralise reactive molecules, supports the liver in processing toxins and drugs, and helps recycle other antioxidants. This test measures total glutathione in whole blood, which is mostly found inside red blood cells. A lower level can suggest reduced antioxidant capacity, which may be seen with oxidative stress, chronic illness, poor nutrition or some exposures. A higher level is generally less of a concern. Results are interpreted alongside your health, nutrition and other markers rather than on their own.
Tests that include Total Glutathione
Glutathione is a tripeptide formed by a peptide linkage between the amine group of cysteine linked to glycine and the carboxyl group of the glutamate side-chain. It is an abundant cellular reducing agent, whose major biological function is mitigating oxidative damage to biological macromolecules. Glutathione is also important in the metabolism and excretion of xenobiotic compounds. Glutathione is consumed to maintain cells in a reduced condition. Consequently, glutathione levels in patient samples are expected to be diminished in disease states where oxygen reactive species are involved, such as rheumatoid arthritis and atherosclerosis. Low glutathione levels have been linked to reduced dopamine production in neurons, which suggests a relationship to dopamine based neurological disorders such as parkinson's disease. High levels of glutathione have been linked to chemotherapy resistance in cancer treatments.
- Total Glutathione Measures total glutathione in whole blood, a key antioxidant made by your cells, to help look at your body's defences against oxidative stress.
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