Glutathione-S-transferase in the context of antioxidant protection against cardiovascular diseases

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) still impact mortality rates worldwide, despite significant advances in their diagnosis and treatment. Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and development of CVDs. The function of some antioxidant enzymes across biological species is well understood; however, the contribution of the glutathione S-transferase (GST) family to the pathogenesis of CVDs, which is an important link in detoxification and antioxidant protection, is not well studied. Understanding the role of GST in maintaining normal cardiovascular function may open new opportunities to develop more effective approaches to treating CVD. Objective. To summarize the available data on the role of glutathione S-transferases, in particular Mu class glutathione S-transferase, in the antioxidant protection of the human body, including in cardiovascular diseases associated with atherosclerosis, and identify promising areas for further research. Materials and methods. The PubMed and eLibrary (Science Index) databases were searched using the following keywords: «atherosclerosis», «cardiovascular diseases», «glutathione S-transferase», «oxidative stress», and «antioxidant defense», with a 25-year search depth. In addition, the review includes individual archival publications of fundamental scientific significance. Results. In the development of cardiovascular diseases associated with atherosclerosis, several initial conditions are distinguished, including dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, and oxidative stress, a companion of acute and chronic inflammation. Virtually all of these conditions are associated with a weakening of the body’s antioxidant defenses. Since GSTs are key participants in the antioxidant system, the review considers the enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems and the role of GST, in particular GSTmu, in atherosclerosis. Conclusion. Glutathione S-transferases play an important role in protecting the body against cardiovascular disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Genetic variations in glutathione S-transferases can significantly affect the body’s predisposition to atherosclerosis. The development of methods to control the activity of these enzymes may represent a promising direction in the treatment and prevention of cardiovascular diseases.