The reaction of glutathione with amino acids and related compounds as catalyzed by gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase.

In a previous publication (1) methods were described which permit the quantitative estimation of the action of y-glutamyl transpeptidase upon glutathione. In the present report these methods are employed to study the influence of amino acids. pcptides, and other compounds upon the reaction. In addition, we present the results of attempts to account for all the main products formed in the reaction in both the presence and absence of the amino acid, arginine. Data on the distribution of y-glutamyl transpeptidase activity in a variety of organs and animal species are also given.