Redox Regulation by Protein S-Glutathionylation: From Molecular Mechanisms to Implications in Health and Disease

Int J Mol Sci. 2020 Oct 30;21(21):8113. doi: 10.3390/ijms21218113.

Abstract

S-glutathionylation, the post-translational modification forming mixed disulfides between protein reactive thiols and glutathione, regulates redox-based signaling events in the cell and serves as a protective mechanism against oxidative damage. S-glutathionylation alters protein function, interactions, and localization across physiological processes, and its aberrant function is implicated in various human diseases. In this review, we discuss the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of S-glutathionylation and describe the changing levels of expression of S-glutathionylation in the context of aging, cancer, cardiovascular, and liver diseases.

Keywords: GSH/GSSG; S-glutathionylation; oxidative stress; protein post-translational modification; redox modification.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Glutathione / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Oxidation-Reduction
  • Oxidative Stress*
  • Protein Processing, Post-Translational*
  • Proteins / chemistry*
  • Proteins / metabolism*
  • Signal Transduction

Substances

  • Proteins
  • Glutathione