Glutathione: A Research Reference Guide to the Master Antioxidant
By Lemon Labs Research Desk · Updated June 29, 2026
In short
Glutathione (GSH) is a tripeptide of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine, often called the cell’s "master antioxidant." It is central to redox homeostasis and detoxification chemistry in research models, cycling between reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) forms. It is supplied as a research-use-only reference compound.
What is glutathione?
Glutathione is a tripeptide — γ-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine — found in essentially all cells. The reactive thiol (–SH) group on its cysteine residue is what gives it antioxidant activity, allowing it to neutralize reactive oxygen species and participate in detoxification reactions.
The redox couple researchers measure
A core concept in glutathione research is the GSH/GSSG ratio: glutathione cycles between its reduced form (GSH) and an oxidized disulfide form (GSSG). The ratio between them is widely used in laboratories as an indicator of a cell’s oxidative state, making glutathione a standard reagent in redox-biology studies.
Handling and quality
Supplied lyophilized; the free thiol is oxidation-sensitive, so store cold, sealed, and protected from light and air, and reconstitute fresh in the lab. Verify identity and ≥99% purity on the lot COA.
Research-use-only statement
This compound is supplied strictly for in-vitro research and laboratory use. It is not a drug, supplement, food, or cosmetic, has not been evaluated by the FDA, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It is not for human or veterinary use. All information here summarizes published scientific literature for educational purposes for qualified researchers — it is not medical advice and does not describe human administration.
Reference compounds mentioned
Frequently asked
What is glutathione made of?
Glutathione is a tripeptide of glutamate, cysteine, and glycine. The thiol group on its cysteine residue is responsible for its antioxidant activity.
What is the GSH/GSSG ratio?
It is the ratio of reduced glutathione (GSH) to oxidized glutathione (GSSG). Laboratories use it as an indicator of a cell’s oxidative state in redox-biology research.
Is glutathione for human use?
No. Material sold here is a research-use-only reference compound for laboratory work, not for human or veterinary use.