Red Cell Glutathione and Glutathione Reductase in Cystic Fibrosis 1

Abstract

Summary

Red blood cell glutathione reductase and whole blood total (oxidized and reduced) glutathione were assayed in cystic fibrosis subjects and non-cystic fibrosis controls. Glutathione reductase activity and total glutathione levels were greater in the cystic fibrosis sample. These findings are consistent with previous data reporting increased pentose phosphate pathway activity and decreased NADPH/NADP ratios in cystic fibrosis erythrocytes. They support the notion that pentose phosphate pathway alterations occur in cystic fibrosis. These data may indicate also the possible role of sulfhydryl group changes in membrane transport abnormalities of the disease.