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Red Blood cell metabolism

Red blood cell metabolism

Mature red blood cells use glucose for ATP and reducing power because they lack mitochondria.

Overview

EXPLORE BY LEVEL

Mature red blood cells do not have . They use glycolysis to make ATP and the pentose phosphate to help protect themselves from oxidative damage.

Quick Facts

AT A GLANCE
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Follow the Connections

See how Red Blood cell metabolism links to other biological records.

Open network
PathwayGlycolysisuses pathwayPathwayPentose Phosphate pathwayuses pathway
All 2 Structured Connections
Red Blood cell metabolism · ProcessUSES PATHWAY →Glycolysis · Pathway
Red Blood cell metabolism · ProcessUSES PATHWAY →Pentose Phosphate pathway · Pathway

Recommended Reading

Trusted references for learning more about Red Blood cell metabolism.

databaseGlucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiencyMedlinePlus Genetics databasePyruvate kinase deficiencyMedlinePlus Genetics pathwayGlycolysis (R-HSA-70171)Reactome · Homo sapiens pathwayPentose phosphate pathway (R-HSA-71336)Reactome · Homo sapiens
Research Claims

Mature erythrocytes lack mitochondria and generate ATP through glycolysis; NADPH-dependent redox defense relies heavily on G6PD flux. Mature cells also use the Rapoport–Luebering shunt to tune 2,3-BPG.