Posted by Larry Hoover on January 21, 2007, at 10:20:39
In reply to 1 more academic ? for you biochem enthusiasts., posted by Jimmyboy on January 17, 2007, at 10:11:26
> Another question .. for you biochem folks out there.
>
> Is there any connection between glutathione levels and increasing BDNF ( hippocampal)or any other neurptrophic factors ?Yes.
Oh, the nature of that relationship? ;-)
Higher glutathione levels stimulate BDNF release, which is dependent on ascorbate concentration.
> Is more glutathione a good thing for your brain, I know it is, but why exactly?
>
>
> Thanks
>
> JBGlutathione is one of the free-floating scavengers of ROS (reactive oxygen species). Oxygen may be required for life, but it is arguably the most reactive of all elements. Our bodies are playing with fire, literally. Byproducts of normal reactions often include the formation of some very reactive debris. Glutathione has a terminal sulfhydryl group, which reacts readily via oxidation. So, it's a sacrificial lamb, hopefully taking the ROS bullet instead of your precious membrane polyunsaturates, or DNA, RNA or proteins.
Glutathione formation is cysteine dependent, which is why whey protein is often recommended.
Lar
poster:Larry Hoover
thread:723148
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/alter/20070114/msgs/724753.html