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Send EmailL-Glutathione, Reduced Glutathione, L-Glutathione Reduced, GSH, 70-18-8
Product Name: L-Glutathione Reduced (GSH)
CAS Number: 70-18-8
EC Number: 200-725-4
Chemical Formula: C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S
Molecular Weight: 307.32 g/mol
Chemical Class: Tripeptide, thiol, antioxidant
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Name | L-Glutathione Reduced (GSH) |
| Other Names | L-Glutathione, Reduced Glutathione, GSH, γ-L-Glutamyl-L-cysteinyl-glycine, γ-Glu-Cys-Gly |
| CAS Number | 70-18-8 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 200-725-4 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S |
| Molecular Weight | 307.32 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Tripeptide, thiol (sulfhydryl) compound |
| IUPAC Name | (2S)-2-amino-5-[[(2R)-1-(carboxymethylamino)-1-oxo-3-sulfanylpropan-2-yl]amino]-5-oxopentanoic acid |
| Appearance | White or off-white crystalline or crystalline powder |
| Odor | Characteristic odor |
| Amino Acid Sequence | γ-Glu-Cys-Gly |
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION AND EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced (GSH) is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids (L-glutamic acid, L-cysteine, and glycine) linked by peptide bonds. It is one of the most important low molecular weight thiol compounds found in nature and serves as the key molecule of the primary antioxidant defense mechanism in living cells.
The structural feature of GSH derives from its sulfhydryl (-SH) group. This active group provides the ability to neutralize free radicals, detoxify reactive oxygen species (ROS), and maintain intracellular redox balance. The reduced form (GSH) can be converted to its oxidized form (GSSG - glutathione disulfide), and this redox cycle plays a critical role in managing cellular oxidative stress.
GSH participates in intracellular detoxification processes, drug metabolism, protein disulfide bond rearrangement, and reduction of peroxides. It also functions as a cofactor for enzymes such as glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase. It is widely used in dietary supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical applications.
| Property | Value | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White or off-white crystalline or crystalline powder | Pharmaceutical grade |
| Solubility (Water) | Freely soluble in water | High aqueous solubility |
| Solubility (Ethanol) | Very slightly soluble (96% Ethanol) | |
| Solubility (Methylene Chloride) | Very slightly soluble | |
| Clarity and Color of Solution | Clear and colorless | 0.1 g/mL solution |
| Specific Optical Rotation ([α]D) | -15.5° to -17.5° | On dried basis, 1 g/25 mL water |
| Molecular Weight | 307.32 g/mol | |
| pH (1% aqueous solution) | ~3 | Acidic character |
| Melting Point | 182-195°C (decomposes) | |
| Log P (octanol/water) | -5.41 | Very low; highly hydrophilic |
| Bulk Density | ≥0.20 g/ml | Powder density |
| Tapped Density | ≥0.40 g/ml | Compressed powder density |
PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced is found as a white or off-white crystalline or crystalline powder. It is freely soluble in water and forms a clear and colorless solution at 0.1 g/mL concentration. It is very slightly soluble in ethanol (96%) and methylene chloride.
The specific optical rotation value (on dried basis, 1 g/25 mL water) ranges from -15.5° to -17.5°, confirming the L-configuration. The molecule has a very low LogP value (-5.41), indicating that it is highly hydrophilic (water-loving) and has a very low bioaccumulation potential. The pH of a 1% aqueous solution is approximately 3. The melting point ranges from 182-195°C, at which it decomposes.
| Parameter | Specification | Measured Value | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assay | 98.0% – 102.0% (on dried basis) | 98.6% | Active ingredient content |
| Chloride | ≤0.02% | <0.02% | |
| Sulfate | ≤0.03% | <0.03% | |
| Ammonium | ≤0.02% | <0.02% | |
| Iron | ≤0.001% | <0.001% | |
| Heavy Metals | ≤10 ppm | <10 ppm | As lead |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤1 ppm | <1 ppm | |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤2 ppm | <2 ppm | |
| Mercury (Hg) | ≤0.2 ppm | <0.2 ppm | |
| Cadmium (Cd) | ≤0.3 ppm | <0.3 ppm | |
| Loss on Drying | ≤0.5% | 0.1% | At 105°C |
| Residue on Ignition | ≤0.1% | 0.09% | Sulfated ash |
PURITY AND ANALYSIS RESULTS EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced is manufactured with high purity pharmaceutical quality. The assay (active ingredient content) on dried basis should be between 98.0-102.0%. Inorganic impurities such as chloride, sulfate, and ammonium are maintained below 0.02%, 0.03%, and 0.02% respectively. Heavy metal content is tightly controlled below 10 ppm, arsenic below 1 ppm, lead below 2 ppm, mercury below 0.2 ppm, and cadmium below 0.3 ppm. Loss on drying is limited to ≤0.5% and residue on ignition to ≤0.1%.
| Parameter | Specification | Measured Value | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| GSSG (Oxidized Glutathione) | ≤1.5% | 0.49% | Oxidized form |
| Total Related Substances | ≤2.0% | 0.67% | Total of all impurities |
RELATED SUBSTANCES EXPLANATION:
In the purity assessment of L-Glutathione Reduced, the oxidized form GSSG (glutathione disulfide) and other related substances are critical parameters. GSSG content is limited to ≤1.5%, indicating a high proportion of the product remains in the reduced form. Total related substances should be ≤2.0%. The measured values (GSSG 0.49%, total 0.67%) are significantly below specifications, confirming high purity quality. These impurities are determined by capillary electrophoresis method.
| Parameter | Specification | Measured Value | Explanation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Plate Count | ≤1000 CFU/g | <10 CFU/g | |
| Coliforms | ≤100 CFU/g | <10 CFU/g | |
| Yeast and Mold | ≤50 CFU/g | <10 CFU/g | |
| Salmonella | Negative | ND (Not Detected) | |
| S. aureus | Negative | Absent | |
| E. coli | Negative/10g | Negative |
MICROBIOLOGICAL PROPERTIES EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced is manufactured to meet microbiological quality standards required for pharmaceutical and food applications. Total aerobic microbial count is limited to ≤1000 CFU/g. Coliform bacteria count should be ≤100 CFU/g, yeast and mold count ≤50 CFU/g. Pathogenic microorganisms including Salmonella, S. aureus, and E. coli must be negative. The measured values (<10 CFU/g) indicate the product is of high microbiological purity.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Dietary Supplements | Antioxidant support, immune system support, detoxification |
| Cosmetics | Used as antioxidant and skin brightening agent in skincare products |
| Pharmaceutical | Excipient in drug formulations, antidote, hepatoprotective agent |
| Cell Culture | Used as antioxidant and growth promoter in cell culture media |
| Food Industry | Used as food supplement (including infant formula) |
| Biopharmaceutical | Used as protein stabilizer in biological drug production |
APPLICATION AREAS EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced has a wide range of industrial and medical applications:
Dietary Supplements: Due to its antioxidant properties, it is used to support the immune system, improve detoxification processes, and delay cellular aging.
Cosmetics: Used in skincare products as an antioxidant to delay skin aging and as a skin tone-evening (brightening) agent.
Pharmaceutical: N-acetylcysteine, used as an antidote for acetaminophen (paracetamol) poisoning, acts through the GSH pathway. It is also included in hepatoprotective and detoxification pharmaceutical formulations.
Cell Culture: Used as an antioxidant in cell culture media to protect cells against oxidative stress and optimize recombinant protein production.
Biopharmaceutical: Used as a protein stabilizer and antioxidant in formulations of biological drugs (monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins). It enhances protein folding and stability by maintaining the redox environment.
Food Industry: Approved by the FDA as a food additive. Used as a supplement in various food products, including infant formula.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | Not classified as hazardous |
| Signal Word | Not applicable |
| Oral LD50 (Mouse) | 5 g/kg |
| Skin Irritation | May cause irritation |
| Eye Irritation | May cause mechanical irritation |
| Skin Sensitization | No allergic reactions observed |
| Mutagenicity | Negative |
| Carcinogenicity | Not listed (IARC, NTP, ACGIH, OSHA) |
| Bioaccumulation | Not likely (Log P: -5.41) |
| WGK (Germany) | 2 (hazard to water) |
| RTECS | MC0556000 |
SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced is not classified as a hazardous substance according to European Union regulations. It has low toxicity; the oral LD50 in mice is 5 g/kg. No mutagenic, carcinogenic, or reproductive toxicity classification exists. May cause skin irritation; dust contact may cause mechanical eye irritation. Environmental bioaccumulation potential is very low (Log P: -5.41). Classified as WGK 2 (hazard to water).
Safety Precautions:
Inhalation: Avoid dust inhalation; provide adequate ventilation.
Skin Contact: Wash with plenty of water upon skin contact.
Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes upon eye contact.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water. Do not induce vomiting.
PPE Recommendations: Safety goggles, dust mask (particle filter), work gloves.
Ventilation: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid dust formation.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, light-protected, and well-ventilated area |
| Storage Temperature | Short-term: 2-8°C; Long-term: -20°C |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed containers; protect from moisture and air |
| Conditions to Avoid | Light, moisture, air (oxidation), high temperature |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong oxidizing agents |
| Shelf Life | 2 years at -20°C; 3 years at 2-8°C |
| Solution Stability | Unstable in aqueous solutions; should be freshly prepared |
| Special Storage | Storage under nitrogen atmosphere, argon atmosphere recommended |
| Packaging | Vacuum or inert gas-flushed containers |
STORAGE AND HANDLING EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced is sensitive to air (oxygen), light, moisture, and temperature. Storage under inert gas (nitrogen or argon) atmosphere is recommended to protect against oxidation. Short-term storage at 2-8°C and long-term storage at -20°C are ideal. Must be protected from light, moisture, and air.
Aqueous solutions are unstable and tend to convert to the oxidized form (GSSG); therefore, solutions should be freshly prepared and used immediately. Shelf life varies depending on storage conditions: at least 2 years at -20°C, and up to 3 years at 2-8°C. Keep away from strong oxidizing agents.
Handling Notes:
Avoid dust formation (closed systems, local exhaust ventilation).
Avoid skin and eye contact.
Do not expose to air, moisture, and light.
Prepare aqueous solutions fresh.
Use appropriate PPE (dust mask, safety goggles, gloves).
After use, close the container tightly and store under inert gas.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not applicable (not a hazardous substance) |
| Hazard Class | Not a hazardous substance |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| Proper Shipping Name | L-Glutathione Reduced |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
| ADR/RID Label | Not applicable |
| Transport Temperature | Ambient (room temperature) or cold chain |
| Special Precautions | Temperature control, protect from moisture, protect from light, airtight packaging |
TRANSPORT INFORMATION EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced is not classified as a hazardous substance, therefore no special restrictions apply for road, sea, or air transport. UN number, hazard class, and packing group are not required. However, due to the product's sensitivity to heat, moisture, and light, appropriate temperature control (cold chain) and protective packaging are recommended during transport. Some suppliers require cold chain transportation. Airtight, light-protected, and moisture-proof packaging should be used. Not classified as a marine pollutant.
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| EU (REACH) | Registered / compliant |
| USA (FDA) | GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) |
| Pharmacopoeia Compliance | USP, EP, JP compliant |
| Cosmetics | Listed in EU Cosmetics Inventory |
| Food | Approved as food additive by FDA |
| Türkiye (KKDİK) | Mandatory compliance; requires registration |
REGULATORY INFORMATION EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced is registered in all major industrial markets including the EU (REACH) and USA (TSCA). Classified as GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA and approved as a food additive; permitted for use in various food products, including infant formula. Listed in the European Cosmetics Inventory (EUCOSMETICS). Manufactured in compliance with USP, EP, and JP pharmacopoeias. In Türkiye, requires mandatory registration under KKDİK (Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals).
| Standard | Description |
|---|---|
| USP | United States Pharmacopeia |
| EP | European Pharmacopoeia |
| JP | Japanese Pharmacopoeia |
| Ph.Eur. | Pharmacopoeia Europaea |
| FDA GRAS | Generally Recognized As Safe by FDA |
| TM5002 | Manufacturer's quality standard |
QUALITY STANDARDS EXPLANATION:
L-Glutathione Reduced is manufactured in compliance with international pharmacopoeias (USP, EP, JP). Pharmaceutical grade products are supplied with high purity (≥98.0%) and tight quality control parameters. Used as EP reference standard. Ph.Eur. (PharmPure™) quality indicates compliance with European Pharmacopoeia standards. Classified as GRAS by the FDA. TM5002 standard defines the manufacturer's specific quality requirements.
SUMMARY:
L-Glutathione Reduced (GSH, CAS 70-18-8) is a tripeptide composed of L-glutamic acid, L-cysteine, and glycine. It appears as a white or off-white crystalline or crystalline powder and is freely soluble in water. Molecular weight is 307.32 g/mol, and optical rotation ranges from -15.5° to -17.5°. It is one of the most important antioxidant molecules in cells and plays a critical role in maintaining redox balance.
Pharmaceutical grade products with ≥98.0% purity undergo strict impurity (GSSG ≤1.5%, total ≤2.0%) and microbiological controls. Compliant with USP, EP, and JP pharmacopoeias. Classified as GRAS by the FDA and widely used in dietary supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical applications.
Sensitive to light, moisture, air, and temperature. Should be stored at -20°C under nitrogen or argon atmosphere, protected from light and moisture. Aqueous solutions are unstable and should be freshly prepared. Not classified as hazardous; has low toxicity.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Product Name | L-Glutathione Reduced (GSH) |
| CAS Number | 70-18-8 |
| EC Number | 200-725-4 |
| Molecular Formula | C₁₀H₁₇N₃O₆S |
| Molecular Weight | 307.32 g/mol |
| Appearance | White or off-white crystalline/crystalline powder |
| Solubility | Freely soluble in water |
| Specific Optical Rotation | -15.5° to -17.5° |
| Assay | 98.0% – 102.0% (on dried basis) |
| Primary Use | Antioxidant, dietary supplement, pharmaceutical excipient |
| Industry | Applications |
|---|---|
| Dietary Supplements | Antioxidant support, immune system, detoxification |
| Cosmetics | Skin care, anti-aging, brightening |
| Pharmaceutical | Pharmaceutical excipient, antidote (liver protection) |
| Biopharmaceutical | Protein stabilizer, cell culture media |
| Food | Food supplement (FDA approved) |
NOT HAZARDOUS: No GHS classification
LOW TOXICITY: Oral LD50 (mouse) 5 g/kg
IRRITANT: Dust may cause respiratory, skin, and eye irritation; use appropriate PPE
STORAGE: -20°C (long-term), 2-8°C (short-term); inert gas atmosphere recommended
SENSITIVE: Sensitive to light, moisture, air (oxidation), and temperature
UNSTABLE SOLUTION: Aqueous solutions must be freshly prepared
Oxidation Sensitivity: L-Glutathione Reduced readily oxidizes to its oxidized form (GSSG) in contact with air (oxygen). Therefore, the product should be stored under inert gas (nitrogen or argon) atmosphere and exposure to air during use should be minimized.
Light Sensitivity: The product is sensitive to light. Should be stored in light-protected containers in a dark environment.
Moisture Sensitivity: Moisture adversely affects product stability. Should be stored in dry conditions in tightly closed containers.
Temperature Control: Short-term storage at 2-8°C and long-term storage at -20°C are recommended. Shelf life depends on storage conditions.
Solution Stability: Aqueous solutions are unstable; solutions should be freshly prepared and used immediately. Oxidation accelerates in solution form.
Pharmacopoeia Compliance: The product is manufactured in compliance with USP, EP, and JP pharmacopoeias. Used as EP reference standard.
FDA GRAS Classification: Approved as a food additive by the FDA and permitted for use in food products, including infant formula.
Biopharmaceutical Application: Used as a protein stabilizer in biological drug production; critical for protecting proteins from oxidative damage and maintaining the redox environment.
IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is prepared based on available technical data. The information provided is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the product's suitability for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable local, national, and international regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, storage, handling, transport, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are obligated to test the product in their own processes and applications. All occupational health and safety rules must be observed when working with L-Glutathione Reduced.