![](https://cos-cdn.shuashuati.com/pipixue-wap/2020-1230-1107-56/ti_inject-812ce.png)
In erythrocytes, the _________ produced by the pentose phosphate pathway is so important in preventing oxidative damage that a genetic defect in glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase, the first enzyme of the pathway, can have serious medical consequences.