Pentose Phosphate Pathway

**Definition:** An oxidative decarboxylation process that converts GLUCOSE-6-PHOSPHATE to D-ribose-5-phosphate via 6-phosphogluconate. The pentose product is used in the biosynthesis of NUCLEIC ACIDS. The generated energy is stored in the form of NADPH. This pathway is prominent in tissues which are active in the synthesis of FATTY ACIDS and STEROIDS.

**Tree numbers:** - G02.111.158.875 - G03.191.875 - G03.295.693 - G03.493.695

**Synonyms:** - Pentose Phosphate Shunt - Pentose Shunt - Hexose Monophosphate Shunt - Pentosephosphate Shunt - Pentose-Phosphate Pathway - Pentosephosphate Pathway