Question

NADPH, a by-product of G6PD, is needed to regenerate reduced glutathione. Therefore, what is the effect of G6PD deficiency on the ability to regenerate reduced glutathione?

1) Increased ability to regenerate reduced glutathione
2) No effect on the ability to regenerate reduced glutathione
3) Decreased ability to regenerate reduced glutathione
4) Cannot be determined

Answer 1

G6PD deficiency leads to a 3. decreased ability to regenerate reduced glutathione due to reduced production of NADPH, which is critical for glutathione maintenance and cellular protection against oxidative damage.

Step-by-step explanation:

Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency leads to a decreased ability to regenerate reduced glutathione. G6PD is a key enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway that generates Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide Phosphate (NADPH), which in turn maintains glutathione levels in red blood cells. Glutathione is crucial for protecting red blood cells from oxidative damage. Without sufficient G6PD, NADPH levels drop, thus hampering the regeneration of reduced glutathione and increasing the risk of cellular damage and hemolytic anemia.

Therefore, the effect of G6PD deficiency on the ability to regenerate reduced glutathione is a decreased ability. Particularly, this deficiency can manifest in symptoms like jaundice, as the cells lose the protective effects of glutathione and hemoglobin is broken down into bilirubin. Individuals with this deficiency have to avoid certain substances that can exacerbate the condition.

• Glucose-6-Phosphate Dehydrogenase deficiency causes decreased ability to regenerate reduced glutathione.
• NADPH is critical for maintaining reduced glutathione levels, which protect cells from oxidative damage.
• G6PD deficiency increases the risk of cellular damage and hemolytic anemia.