N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine, 50g (C08-0504-497)

N-Acetyl-L-cysteine is an acetylated amino acid with antioxidant and mucolytic properties for isolation of mycobacteria from sputum. As a mucolytic agent, N-Acetyl-L-cysteine serves to dissipate disulfide bonds across mucoproteins, loosening and clearing the viscosity of sputum. N-Acetyl-L-cysteine acts as a free-radical scavenger and inhibits the production of reactive oxygen species which can damage cellular structures. It is critical for the production of Glutathione, a key antioxidant enzyme in the body. It has also been shown to induce apoptosis in vascular smooth muscle cells, indicating that these cells respond differently to changes in reduction-oxidation state than other tissues that are normally protected by the presence of antioxidants. Antioxidant and mucolytic agent. Increases cellular pools of free radical scavengers. Reported to prevent apoptosis in neuronal cells but induce apoptosis in smooth muscle cells. Inhibits HIV replication. May serve as a substrate for microsomal glutathione transferase.