Pentose Phosphate Pathway

Abstract

Pentose phosphate pathway (PPP) is also known as Warburg–Lipmann–Dickens–Horecker pathway. The main functions of PPP pathway are reductant and pentose generation. However, no ATP is directly produced in this pathway. Pentose pathway occurs in cytosol. Unlike glycolysis and citric acid cycle where reactions are directional, here interconversion of sugar phosphates can take place in a variety of ways. This pathway contributes to serve as a source of biosynthetic intermediates for the synthesis of nucleotides, amino acids, vitamins, lipopolysaccharide and also fatty acids. The pathway along with the intermediates important for synthesis of various biomolecules has been discussed. Finally, its role in counteracting oxidative stress by maintaining metabolic and redox homeostasis is presented.