Ribose-5-Phosphate
Ribose-5-Phosphate is a sugar phosphate that plays a crucial role in the pentose phosphate pathway, a metabolic process that generates nucleotides and nucleic acids. It is formed from ribulose-5-phosphate through the action of the enzyme ribose-5-phosphate isomerase. This compound is essential for the synthesis of RNA and DNA, as well as for the production of ATP, the energy currency of the cell.
In addition to its role in nucleic acid synthesis, Ribose-5-Phosphate is involved in the generation of NADPH, a molecule important for various biosynthetic reactions and antioxidant defense. Its presence in cellular metabolism highlights its significance in maintaining cellular functions and supporting growth and repair processes.