PMID-28853742 – Liposomal Glutathione Elevates GSH and Immune Markers
Sinha R, Sinha I, Calcagnotto A, et al. "Oral supplementation with liposomal glutathione elevates body stores of glutathione and markers of immune function," Eur J Clin Nutr, 2018;72(1):105-111.
Quick Reference
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| PMID | 28853742 |
| DOI | 10.1038/ejcn.2017.132 |
| Year | 2018 |
| Journal | European Journal of Clinical Nutrition |
| Study Type | Open-Label Pilot Study |
| Evidence Level | III |
| Sample | n=12 healthy adults |
| Peptide(s) Studied | Glutathione |
Key Findings
- Oral liposomal glutathione (500 mg or 1000 mg/day for 1 month) significantly increased GSH levels in whole blood, erythrocytes, and plasma
- 1000 mg dose: whole blood GSH increased 40% at 2 weeks; erythrocyte GSH increased 25% at 1 month
- Lymphocyte GSH levels also significantly elevated
- NK cell cytotoxicity increased by 400% at 2 weeks in the 1000 mg group
- Reduced 8-isoprostane (oxidative damage biomarker) levels, suggesting functional antioxidant effect
- Liposomal formulation showed faster onset than standard oral glutathione (increases at 1-2 weeks vs 1-3 months)
- No adverse effects reported
Study Design
Open-label pilot study. 12 healthy adults received oral liposomal glutathione at 500 mg/day or 1000 mg/day for 4 weeks. GSH levels measured in whole blood, erythrocytes, plasma, and lymphocytes at baseline, 1, 2, and 4 weeks. Immune markers (NK cytotoxicity, lymphocyte proliferation) and oxidative stress markers (8-isoprostane) assessed.
Limitations
- Very small sample size (n=12)
- Open-label design (no placebo control or blinding)
- Short duration (4 weeks)
- No comparison with standard (non-liposomal) oral glutathione
- Healthy subjects only
- No assessment of clinical outcomes beyond biomarkers
Clinical Relevance
This pilot study provides preliminary evidence that liposomal glutathione may be more rapidly absorbed and effective than standard oral glutathione, with significant increases in body GSH stores and immune function markers (NK cell activity) appearing within 1-2 weeks. The 400% increase in NK cytotoxicity is particularly notable for immune optimization. While the open-label design and small sample limit conclusions, these data support the use of liposomal delivery for improving glutathione bioavailability and provide rationale for larger controlled trials.
Related
#research #observational #evidence-level-III #glutathione #immune #anti-aging