6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase

Function

6-phosphogluconate dehydrogenase (6PGD) catalyzes the decarboxylation reduction of 6-phosphogluconate (6PG) to ribulose 5-phosphate and CO2. This reaction is part of the pentose phosphate pathway. NADP is a cofactor in this reaction and is converted to NADPH.^[1]

Disease

6PGD deficiency is an autosomal hereditary disease which manifests itself by abnormal breakdown of red blood cells. Treatment involves avoidance of drugs or foods which can cause hemolysis.^[2]