Question

Favism is a genetic disorder that impacts the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway.  Do you think favism patients have more trouble with breakdown or synthesis of nucleic acids?

People with favism have trouble producing the reduced form of glutathione for protection against oxidative damage.  Why do you think that is?

Answer 1

A). Favism patients have more trouble with synthesis of nucleic acids. Favism is a hemolytic disorder in which breakdown of RBCs takes place.

B).Favism is caused by the deficiency of G6PD enzyme. This occurs due to mutations in the G6PD gene.

G6PD catalyses the 1st reaction in pentose phosphate pathway to produce NADPH. NADPH is necessary, to keep the glutathione in reduced form. Reduced glutathione act as scavenger for oxidative metabolises and thereby protecting the red cells.