Work

γ‐Glutamylcysteine Alleviates t‐BHP‐Induced Oxidative Damage in NIH / 3T3 Fibroblasts by Promoting Nuclear Translocation of Nrf2

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Fibroblasts are essential for tissue repair, but reactive oxygen species (ROS) can impair their function, leading to mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. γ-Glutamylcysteine (γ-GC), a glutathione (GSH) precursor and potent antioxidant, may protect fibroblasts, though its mechanisms in ROS-mediated damage remain unclear. This study examined γ-GC's effects on tert-butyl hydroperoxide (t-BHP)-injured NIH/3T3 fibroblasts. γ-GC effectively reduced ROS levels, restored antioxidant defenses, and preserved mitochondrial function, thereby inhibiting apoptosis. Mechanistically, γ-GC upregulated nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) and promoted its nuclear translocation. The Nrf2 inhibitor ML385 confirmed that γ-GC's protective effects were mediated through Nrf2 activation. These results demonstrate that γ-GC, as a direct GSH precursor, not only scavenges ROS but also enhances cellular antioxidant capacity and mitochondrial homeostasis. Its dual role in ROS mitigation and Nrf2 activation highlights γ-GC's therapeutic potential for improving aberrant tissue repair.

Source: Food Science & Nutrition

DOI: 10.1002/fsn3.71574

Authors: Shuai Lu, Yujie Pan, Mingyan Xia, Jin Luo, Wenfeng Yu

Institutions: Guiyang Medical University, Affiliated Hospital of Guizhou Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Genomics, phytochemicals, and oxidative stress

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,630