Human Erythrocyte Glutathione Reductase and Glucose 6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase Activities in Normal Subjects and in Persons Exposed to Lead

Abstract

1. Blood lead and erythrocyte glutathione reductase (GSSG-R) and glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6P-D) activities were measured in normal subjects and in those with occupational exposure to lead. 2. With increasing blood lead concentration, GSSG-R activity increases and that of G6P-D decreases. 3. It is suggested that these changes represent part of a compensatory mechanism to overcome the reduction of sulphydryl groups by lead ions.