If NADPH is needed for biosynthetic reactions but ribose-5-P is not needed,which of the following best represents the net reaction of the pentose phosphate pathway?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When NADPH is needed but ribose-5-P is not, the pentose phosphate pathway shifts towards producing NADPH while minimizing the production of ribose-5-P. This is achieved through both the oxidative phase, which generates NADPH, and the non-oxidative phase, which recycles ribose-5-P back into intermediates of glycolysis. Choice B reflects this by showing the consumption of glucose-6-phosphate and the production of NADPH, CO₂, and glycolytic intermediates, without accumulating ribose-5-P.

If NADPH Is Needed for Biosynthetic Reactions but Ribose-5-P Is