Cytosolic NADPH homeostasis in glucose-starved procyclic trypanosoma brucei relies on malic enzyme and the pentose phosphate pathway fed by gluconeogenic flux

Abstract

Background: NADPH production is critical for growth and oxidative stress management. Results: Redundancy of the pentose phosphate pathway and the cytosolic malic enzyme for NADPH synthesis is carbon source-independent in procyclic trypanosomes. Conclusion: The parasite has gluconeogenic capacity from proline. Significance: This work illustrates the flexible carbon source-dependent flux changes for essential NADPH supply. © 2013 by The American Society.