1,2 By donating its sulfhydryl group, NAC can readily bind to and neutralize potentially harmful substances and metabolites, helping the body to maintain the integrity of cells by supporting mechanisms that may enhance immune function
doi:10.1016/j.resmic.2018.09.002 Cozzolino M, Vitagliano A, Pellegrini L, et al
GSH-enhanced T cells can produce more infection-fighting substances like interleukins-2 and -12 (IL-2, IL-12) and interferon-gamma, working to control both bacterial and viral infections in this way.16 In particular, one study found that GSH doubled NK cell's ability to be cytotoxic (kill invaders) after just six months of use.17 It also appears that glutathione has a direct antibacterial effect even as it helps macrophagesa cell of the immune systemfight the bacterium that causes tuberculosis (Mycobacterium tuberculosis).18 In this study, researchers found that "GSH works to modulate the behavior of many cells including the cells of the immune system, augmenting the innate and the adaptive immunity as well as conferring protection against microbial, viral and parasitic infections." 18 Many chronic infections suck as EBV, Hepatitis, Herpes Viruses, and Lyme, to name a few, which can deregulate and suppress the immune system
Following meningococcal vaccination, it was observed that NS workers exhibit reduced deep and REM sleep, elevated inflammatory cytokines (TNF-, IL-6), and diminished humoral immune responses
AS-C: Visualization, Writing original draft
Key Points: Promotes glutathione synthesis, which is a potent antioxidant, and decreases oxidative stress
