Glutathione levels in liver and brain of newborn rats: investigations of the influence of hypoxia and reoxidation on lipid peroxidation

1. The levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) in the liver and brain of newborn rats were independent of the birth mechanism (Cesarean section or natural birth). A significant increase of GSH content could be demonstrated 3 h after birth in the liver only. 2. The influence of reversible hypoxia (9 vol. % O2 in the respired air for one hour) on GSH and oxidized glutathione (GSSG) levels and the content of thiobarbituric acid (TBA) reagible products were investigated in the liver and brain of newborn rats in dependence on the duration of reoxygenation. Only small changes were observed in the liver indicating a relative resistance of this organ to hypoxic stress and reoxygenation. Distinct effects were found in the brain, indicating that the glutathione status is altered by increased lipid peroxidation.