All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Causes of glutathione peroxidase increase and decrease
Medical expert of the article
Last reviewed: 06.07.2025
Selenium deficiency in the body reduces the activity of glutathione peroxidase, and the introduction of selenium increases it. A decrease in the activity of glutathione peroxidase in some diseases largely determines the dynamics of the pathological process.
Glutathione peroxidase activity is reduced in patients with alcoholism, which results in impaired protection of liver cells from the damaging effects of alcohol. Glutathione peroxidase activity and selenium concentration in the blood of such patients return to normal after stopping alcohol intake.
Decreased glutathione peroxidase activity significantly increases the risk of cancer. Patients with cystic fibrosis have poor absorption of selenium, which leads to decreased glutathione peroxidase activity. Monitoring glutathione peroxidase activity in such patients allows timely decision-making on replacement therapy.
Low glutathione peroxidase activity and low selenium levels may cause infertility.
Free radicals are involved in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis, so this disease often has reduced glutathione peroxidase activity and selenium concentrations.
Glutathione peroxidase activity is decreased in patients undergoing programmed hemodialysis. This is caused by hemodialysis-related micronutrient deficiencies, particularly selenium.