Glutathione Modulates Efficacious Changes in the Immune Response against Tuberculosis

Abstract

Glutathione (GSH) is an antioxidant in human cells that is utilized to prevent damage occurred by reactive oxygen species, free radicals, peroxides, lipid peroxides, and heavy metals. Due to its immunological role in tuberculosis (TB), GSH is hypothesized to play an important part in the immune response against M. tb infection. In fact, one of the hallmark structures of TB is granuloma formation, which involves many types of immune cells. T cells, specifically, are a major component and are involved in the release of cytokines and activation of macrophages. GSH also serves an important function in macrophages, natural killer cells, and T cells in modulating their activation, their metabolism, proper cytokine release, proper redox activity, and free radical levels. For patients with increased susceptibility, such as those with HIV and type 2 diabetes, the demand for higher GSH levels is increased. GSH acts as an important immunomodulatory antioxidant by stabilizing redox activity, shifting of cytokine profile toward Th1 type response, and enhancing T lymphocytes. This review compiles reports showing the benefits of GSH in improving the immune responses against M. tb infection and the use of GSH as an adjunctive therapy for TB.

Unraveling the Multifaceted Role of Glutathione in Sepsis: A Comprehensive Review

“…Glutathione's support of immune system function extends to its influence on T-cell lymphocytes, pivotal players in the immune response, and its control over free radicals essential for inflammatory processes [ 23 ]. In the immune response against tuberculosis, glutathione emerges as a critical regulator, impacting the activation, metabolism, cytokine release, redox activity, and free radical levels of macrophages, natural killer cells, and T cells [ 24 ]. Maintaining optimal glutathione levels proves crucial for enhancing immune responses against tuberculosis infection, thereby improving outcomes for patients with heightened susceptibility, such as those with HIV or type 2 diabetes [ 24 ].…”

“…In essence, glutathione serves as a vital immunomodulatory antioxidant by stabilizing redox activity, steering cytokine profiles toward a beneficial immune response, and augmenting the function of T lymphocytes [ 24 ]. This underscores the profound significance of glutathione in modulating immune cell function and bolstering immune responses in diverse infectious and inflammatory conditions, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for enhancing host defenses.…”

The Role of Glutathione in the Management of Cell-Mediated Immune Responses in Individuals with HIV

“…In addition to excessive amounts of free radicals found when GSH is low, we see excessive inflammation marked by increased levels of IL-1, IL-6, and TNF-α [ 9 ]. The increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines reciprocally amplifies the production of oxygen radicals, which are scavenged by free GSH, creating a cycle where low GSH levels contribute to both increased inflammation and free radical production.…”

“…In the context of the immune system, optimal glutathione levels are essential for the maintenance of a redox-balanced environment for the proper functioning of lymphocytes and macrophages [ 6 , 7 ]. Previous studies have shown that glutathione supplementation can modulate the cellular redox status for an improved immune response against infectious pathogens, notably Mycobacterium tuberculosis [ 8 , 9 ]. Deficiencies in glutathione have been associated with impaired immune function and increased susceptibility to various diseases, particularly in Individuals with HIV [ 10 ].…”

Interactions between Helicobacter pylori infection and host metabolic homeostasis: A comprehensive review

“…GSH plays a crucial role in maintaining normal immune system function, while possessing antioxidant and detoxification properties 57 . The thiol group on cysteine, known as G‐SH, serves as the active moiety and can bind to drugs, toxins, and other substances, facilitating detoxification 58 …”