Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) assay

Glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px or GPx) is an essential enzyme in the antioxidant defense system of animals. It catalyzes the reduction of lipid peroxides and hydrogen peroxide by reducing glutathione (GSH), directly contributing to the protection of cells against oxidative stress. In both livestock and companion animals, its activity is a major biological indicator of oxidative status, stress response, nutritional quality of the diet, and the level of cellular protection.

Its dosage makes it possible to assess the impact of enriched diets (vitamin E, organic or mineral selenium), nutritional additives, supplementation programs or to optimize feed formulation to improve zootechnical performance.

Importance of dosage in animal health

The GSH-Px assessment is part of a comprehensive approach to understanding the antioxidant status of animals. It is used in several situations:

• monitoring of antioxidant status in livestock
• monitoring the effectiveness of an antioxidant nutritional additive
• assessment of oxidative stress related to heat, transport or infection
• optimization of food formulas rich in fats sensitive to oxidation
• R&D studies in animal nutrition (dose-response effects, selenium bioavailability)

Low GSH-Px activity may indicate selenium deficiency or significant oxidative stress, while high activity reflects an adaptive response or optimized intake of antioxidant micronutrients.

Analytical methods

Several approaches are used to measure GSH-Px activity, depending on the matrix and the desired sensitivity.

ELISA
is an immunological method for quantifying GSH-Px, suitable for animal sera and tissue extracts. It offers excellent sensitivity and good reproducibility, particularly for longitudinal studies.

Spectrophotometry:
A classic enzymatic method measuring the rate of consumption of reduced glutathione in the presence of peroxides. It is particularly used for evaluating enzymatic activity in animal nutrition.

HPLC
is a chromatographic method used in certain protocols to measure substrates and products associated with GSH-Px activity. It is primarily used for complex matrices or applied research.

Analyzed matrices

• animal serums
• plasma
• organ extracts in non-clinical veterinary research
• nutritional supplements for animals
• raw materials enriched with selenium or vitamin E

YesWeLab does not perform any analysis on human matrices.

Recommended Related Analyses

To complete the interpretation of GSH-Px activity, several analyses of the YesWeLab catalogue are relevant.

Selenium dosage (a key element for GSH-Px)

Vitamin E (α-tocopherol) dosage

Total Antioxidant Status (TAS) Assay

Fatty acid analysis (impact on lipid oxidation)

Applications in animal nutrition

• Ruminants: optimization of selenium supplementation, monitoring of pathologies related to oxidative stress.
• Poultry: improved performance, increased resistance to heat stress, protection of dietary lipids.
• Pigs: immune support, weaning stress management, assessment of antioxidants in feed.
• Pets: premium food formulation, support for older animals, enhanced cell protection.

The measurement of GSH-Px thus allows food manufacturers, nutritionists, veterinarians and R&D laboratories to have a reliable indicator to validate the quality of a formulation or the effectiveness of a nutritional program.

Why choose YesWeLab?

YesWeLab offers simplified and rapid access to the best European analytical platforms specializing in animal health. Thanks to our network of selected laboratories, all experts in enzymatic and nutritional parameters, we guarantee reliable turnaround times, high technical quality, and personalized scientific support at every stage.