Protective effects of GSH, vitamin E, and selenium on lipid peroxidation in cadmium-fed rats.

Increased intake of Cd results in its retention and in peroxidative damage in soft tissues. Coadministration of antioxidants, viz., glutathione (GSH), alpha-tocopherol, and Se, restricted the uptake and distribution of Cd in liver and kidney of rats. Moreover, no rise in malondialdehyde was recorded. Although possible antioxidative mechanisms manifested by GSH, alpha-tocopherol, and Se have been discussed, it is hypothesized that GSH functions as a Cd chelator. Glutathione yielded favorable effects in comparison to Se and alpha-tocopherol.