Glutathione, a tripeptide thiol found in virtually all cells, functions in metabolism, transport, and cellular protection. It participates in the reduction of disulfides and other molecules, and conjugates with compounds of exogenous and endogenous origin. It protects cells against the destructive effects of reactive oxygen intermediates and free radicals. Modifications of glutathione metabolism may be achieved by administration of selective enzyme inhibitors, and also by giving compounds that increase glutathione synthesis. Such effects are useful in chemotherapy and radiation therapy and in protecting cells against the toxic effects of drugs, other foreign compounds, and oxygen.