Glucose metabolism begins with its transport into cells via GLUT transporters, where it is phosphorylated to glucose 6 phosphate (Glucose 6 P). This molecule can enter various pathways, including the pentose phosphate pathway or hexosamine biosynthesis. A small molecule G6PD inhibitor reveals immune dependence on pentose phosphate pathway Nature Chemical Biology Pentose Phosphate Pathway made simple. This pathway has two major jobs: Generate NADPH Produce ribose 5 phosphate NADPH protects cells from oxidative stress and supports fatty acid, cholesterol, steroid, nitric oxide, and respiratory burst Enzymes of glycolysis and the pentose phosphate pathway as targets of oxidants: Role of redox reactions on the carbohydrate catabolism ScienceDirect PENTOSE PHOSPHATE PATHWAY