Molecular Characteristics
Complete Specifications
Structural Composition
γ-Glu-Cys-Gly (gamma-glutamyl-cysteinyl-glycine)
Physical Properties
Glutathione (reduced form, GSH) is a naturally occurring tripeptide composed of gamma-linked glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. The presence of a free thiol (-SH) group on the cysteine residue contributes to its distinctive chemical reactivity and oxidation–reduction properties under laboratory conditions. In solution, glutathione may oxidize to its disulfide form (GSSG), making protection from light, air exposure, and elevated temperatures important for maintaining reduced-state integrity. Lyophilized storage under dry, cold conditions supports improved stability for research and analytical applications.
Analysis & Documentation
Identity
Each production lot is checked against the reference structure recorded for this compound:
- Classification — Endogenous tripeptide (reduced form, L-Glutathione)
- Molecular formula — C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S
- Expected mass — ~307.32 Da
- CAS registry — 70-18-8
- Chain length — 3 amino acids
- PubChem CID — 124886
Analytical Methods
Testing is carried out per lot by an independent laboratory. The methods measure what the material is and how much of it is the target compound:
- RP-HPLC — reverse-phase separation of the target from process-related impurities; purity is reported as area percent of the main peak
- Mass spectrometry — observed mass compared against the expected molecular mass above
- Retention time — compared against a reference standard run under the same conditions
- Chromatogram — reproduced on the certificate so the peak and any shoulders can be inspected directly
Material & Documentation
What arrives, and how to tie it back to its paperwork:
- Appearance as supplied — White to off-white crystalline or lyophilized powder
- Solubility — Water, buffered aqueous solutions (e.g., PBS)
- Lot number — printed on the container label and used to look up the certificate
- Certificate — indexed by lot at Certificates of Analysis
Laboratory Handling and Storage Protocols
Lyophilized Powder Storage
- Store at –20°C to –80°C in the original, sealed vial
- Protect from light exposure and moisture
- A desiccated storage environment is recommended
- Stability data suggests extended stability when stored at −20 °C or below.
Stability Characteristics
Glutathione is a naturally occurring tripeptide with moderate stability in solid form and increased sensitivity to oxidation once in solution. Proper cold storage, protection from light and air exposure, and minimized freeze–thaw cycles help maintain compound integrity. When handled appropriately, Glutathione supports consistent use in biochemical, cellular, and analytical research applications.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Glutathione?
Glutathione (reduced form, L-glutathione) is the tripeptide γ-Glu-Cys-Gly, with molecular formula C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S and molecular weight ~307.32 Da (CAS 70-18-8). It is supplied as a white to off-white crystalline or lyophilized powder.
What is the difference between reduced (GSH) and oxidized (GSSG) glutathione?
Reduced glutathione (GSH) carries a free thiol group on its cysteine residue. Oxidized glutathione (GSSG) is the disulfide-linked dimer of two GSH molecules. This product is the reduced form.
How is Glutathione supplied?
Glutathione is typically supplied as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder or crystalline form in sealed research vials to preserve stability during storage and transport.
How should lyophilized Glutathione be stored?
Lyophilized glutathione should be stored:
-
Long-term: −20 °C or below
-
Short-term: 2–8 °C
Keep containers sealed and protected from light, heat, and moisture, as glutathione is sensitive to oxidation.
Does Glutathione require a Certificate of Analysis (COA)?
Yes. A Certificate of Analysis (COA) should be available for each batch, verifying identity, purity, and analytical testing results to ensure research quality and traceability.
Is Glutathione FDA-approved?
When sold as a research compound, glutathione is not FDA-approved for diagnostic, therapeutic, or consumption purposes and must be marketed strictly for laboratory research use.
This product is not for human consumption. It is sold strictly for research and educational purposes and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Any clinical data or research information referenced on this page is derived from peer-reviewed scientific literature and official publications. This information is provided for educational reference only and does not constitute medical advice or product claims.
By purchasing this product, you acknowledge that you are a qualified researcher and agree to use it in full compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.
