Activity of glutathione-dependent enzymes, catalase and superoxide dismutase in the liver and myocardium of rats with vitamin A deficiency

The alimentary deficiency of vitamin A causes marked shifts in the metabolism of GSH: the levels of GSH, GSSG and cysteine in the liver increase, while the activities of glutathione-S-transferase (using glycerol as substrate) and gamma-glutamyltransferase in the liver show a rise. At the same time, vitamin A deficiency causes a decrease of the glutathione peroxidase and catalase activity in the liver. The data obtained are discussed in terms of the role of GSH and enzymes of GSH metabolism in the protection of cells against the damaging influence of lipid peroxidation.