Essential Biochemistry - Carbohydrate Metabolism (Section 4 - No. 42)
In the case of G6PD deficiency, why are red blood cells (RBCs) particularly susceptible to damage?
RBCs cannot synthesize glucose
RBCs rely on the pentose phosphate pathway for NADPH production
RBCs have high levels of aldolase B
RBCs do not require ATP
Explanation
RBCs need NADPH for protection against oxidative damage, and G6PD deficiency impairs NADPH production.
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