ribose phosphate biosynthetic process

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The chemical reactions and pathways resulting in the formation of ribose phosphate, any phosphorylated ribose sugar. [GOC:ai]

Ribose phosphate biosynthesis is a fundamental metabolic pathway essential for the production of nucleotides, the building blocks of DNA and RNA. The process begins with glucose-6-phosphate, a central metabolite in carbohydrate metabolism, and proceeds through a series of enzymatic reactions to generate ribose-5-phosphate. This pathway is divided into two main branches: the oxidative branch and the non-oxidative branch. The oxidative branch involves the conversion of glucose-6-phosphate to ribulose-5-phosphate via a series of oxidation and decarboxylation reactions catalyzed by enzymes like glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and 6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase. This branch also generates NADPH, an important reducing agent for various cellular processes. The non-oxidative branch utilizes the ribulose-5-phosphate generated in the oxidative branch and interconverts it with other pentose phosphates, including xylulose-5-phosphate, ribose-5-phosphate, and sedoheptulose-7-phosphate. These interconversions are catalyzed by enzymes like transketolase and transaldolase. The net result of this pathway is the production of ribose-5-phosphate, which serves as a precursor for nucleotide biosynthesis. Additionally, the pathway contributes to the synthesis of NADPH, which is crucial for various cellular processes, including reducing power for fatty acid synthesis and detoxification of reactive oxygen species. Ribose phosphate biosynthesis is a highly regulated process, ensuring the adequate supply of ribose-5-phosphate for nucleic acid synthesis while maintaining the cellular redox balance. This pathway is essential for cell growth, proliferation, and survival. Deficiencies in this pathway can lead to various diseases, including immunodeficiency and neurodevelopmental disorders.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (23)