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Protein glutathiolation in human blood
Wayne A Kleinman1, Despina Komninou, Yvonne Leutzinger
1Division of Epidemiology and Cancer Suceptibility, American Health Foundation, 1 Dana Road, Valhalla, NY 10595, USA.
Biochemical Pharmacology
|March 12, 2003
Summary
Protein glutathiolation (GSSP) in human blood is substantial, with significant interindividual variation. Blood GSSP levels appear independent of free glutathione (GSH) and hemoglobin concentrations.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Hematology
- Post-translational modifications
Background:
- Glutathione (GSH) exists in free and protein-bound (glutathiolated) forms (GSSP).
- Protein glutathiolation is a potential post-translational regulatory mechanism.
- Limited data exist on glutathiolation regulation in human blood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine GSSP levels in human blood.
- To determine the distribution and variability of blood GSSP.
- To investigate the relationship between GSSP, free GSH, and hemoglobin in healthy adults.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a newly modified method for rapid analysis of GSH and GSSP in blood.
- Quantified GSSP and free GSH concentrations.
- Assessed correlations between GSSP, GSH, and hemoglobin levels.
Main Results:
- GSSP was detected in red blood cells, constituting 4-27% of total GSH (mean 12.1%).
- Blood GSSP concentration averaged 0.13 microEq GSH/mL.
- No significant correlations were found between GSSP and GSH (r=-0.085) or hemoglobin (r=0.086).
- Significant interindividual variation in GSSP levels (34%) was observed.
Conclusions:
- Protein glutathiolation in human blood is substantial, approximately 0.1 mmol/L.
- Blood GSSP levels exhibit considerable interindividual variability.
- GSSP levels in blood do not appear to be regulated by free GSH content.