Flavin enzymes, mitochondrial radicals and reduced glutathione in daily rhythmic dependency.

The diurnal rhythms of the microsomal flavoprotein NADPH-cytochrome c reductase activity, of diaphorase and of succinic dehydrogenase are presented. Minimum levels are ascertained at 09(00), maximum levels at 21(00). The concentration of mitochondrial radicals as a function of the time of day is also demonstrated. Here too the minimum is at 09(00) and the maximum between 15(00) and 21(00). On the other hand, GSH levels are found to be high between 09(00) and 12(00) and low in the evening. Thus a causative relationship between the concentration of cellular radicals, which originate in flavin enzymes, and the concentration of the tripeptide glutathione is assumed.