glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) is an enzyme primarily found in red blood cells. It plays a crucial role in a metabolic pathway that helps protect red blood cells from oxidative damage.12

A deficiency in G6PD can lead to a condition where red blood cells break down more easily, especially after exposure to certain drugs or foods. This breakdown, known as hemolysis, occurs because the reduced enzyme activity impairs the formation of substances that normally prevent oxidative destruction of the red blood cell membrane. This deficiency is hereditary and more common in males, with certain variants prevalent in populations with African or Eastern Mediterranean ancestry. A potential benefit of this deficiency may be a protective effect against malaria.2