Radiation response of Chinese hamster cells after elevation of intracellular glutathione levels.

Cellular glutathione (GSH) levels were modulated by either inhibition of GSH synthesis by buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) or elevation of GSH by treatment with 2-oxo-thiazolidine-4-carboxylate (OTZ), cobaltous chloride, or cysteamine. Using these agents, X ray survival in air was assessed as a function of cellular GSH levels. Depletion of GSH by BSO to less than 5% of control values resulted in slight sensitization of the aerated curve. However, elevation of GSH by as much as 200 to 300% of controls provided no radioprotection in air. These data are discussed in the context of the role of GSH and GSH peroxidase in the detoxification of peroxides produced by X rays.