Strain differences in glutathione metabolism in the erythrocyte from Syrian hamster

Strain differences in erythrocyte glutathione (GSH) metabolism were studied in five inbred strains of Syrian hamster. Significant strain differences were found in the GSH level, rate of GSH regeneration, and the activity of hexokinase (HK). The rate of GSH regeneration did not correlate with the activity of HK. A gender difference was observed in the activity of HK. Our results indicate the possibility that Syrian hamster would be a model for studying the strain differences in the erythrocyte GSH metabolism.