Formation of perthiyl free radicals in irradiated glutathione

The irradiation of reduced (GSH) or oxidized (GSSG) glutathione in the solid state was performed using γ-rays from ⁶⁰Co or high-energy electrons from an accelerator. In GSSG, perthiyl radicals (GSS^˙) were created in addition to carbon-centred radicals as seen by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy. The quantity was independent of the dose rate (electrons or γ-rays) and of the presence of oxygen. In GSH, perthiyl radicals were also created, although in a smaller quantity. Among end-products in irradiated GSSG, we find GSH. Thus, sulphur functions are reduced by irradiation in the solid state.