This specific structural arrangement allows glutathione to serve as the ultimate biochemical shield, constantly sacrificing its own electrons to neutralize highly destructive, electron-stealing molecules known as free radicals, as detailed in comprehensive biochemical reviews
But it is also not without any side effects
Glutathione has been shown to support mitochondrial function
hepatocellular carcinoma cells [75], small cell lung cancer cells [76] and cervical cancer cells [77, 78]
GSH homeostasis is, thus, the result of a fast recycling mechanism, including its synthesis and degradation by the cells
This decline accelerates during caloric restriction, making the deficit state particularly catabolic