Glutathione S-transferase Activity in Diagnostic Pathology

Abstract

Glutathione S-transferase (GST) is a generic term that describes a class of proteins involved in phase-II detoxification of endogenous compounds and xenobiotics. Regulation and function of GSTs have influences on cell growth, oxidative stress, as well as disease progression and prevention. Although not routinely assayed in clinical laboratories, the present review highlighted the application of GST activity in diagnostic pathology. Human GSTs are divided into three main families, namely, the cytosolic, mitochondrial and membranebound microsomal GSTs. The expression of GST isoforms in biologic systems may well be of relevance from a clinical and toxicity standpoints and applies in the renewed efforts in eradication and control of parasitic infections. A survey of frequency of polymorphism and measure of GST activity among human population groups are reliable and valuable diagnostic tools. The reliability of GST activity in diagnostic pathology is underscored in pathologic conditions/disorders whose etiologies are associated with overwhelming levels of oxidative stress and failure of GST-mediated detoxification mechanisms.