Acetyl-glutathione is a form of glutathione, a tripeptide that acts as a major intracellular antioxidant and plays a key role in cellular redox balance, detoxification, and immune function. The mitochondria, being the primary site of energy production (ATP synthesis), generate a significant amount of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and glutathione is central to neutralizing these potentially damaging molecules within the mitochondrial matrix. Scientific studies, primarily in vitro and in animal models, have shown that glutathione depletion in mitochondria leads to increased oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, which are implicated in aging and various diseases.

Oral glutathione is poorly absorbed, but acetylated forms (such as acetyl-glutathione or S-acetyl glutathione) are believed to be more bioavailable and may increase intracellular glutathione levels, including in the mitochondria. Some small-scale human studies and preclinical data support the idea that supplementing acetyl-glutathione can raise glutathione levels in cells and reduce oxidative stress. However, direct clinical evidence showing that acetyl-glutathione supplementation specifically supports mitochondrial function in humans is limited and not robust. Thus, the use of acetyl-glutathione to support mitochondrial health is based on a plausible biochemical rationale and some supportive but preliminary scientific data, rather than strong clinical validation.