A small molecule G6PD inhibitor reveals immune dependence on pentose phosphate pathway Nature Chemical Biology Glucose metabolism begins with its transport into cells via GLUT transporters, where it is phosphorylated to glucose 6 phosphate (Glucose 6 P). This molecule can enter various pathways, including the pentose phosphate pathway or hexosamine biosynthesis. 27. The Pentose Phosphate Pathway: The Many Essential Roles of Glucose pentose phosphate pathway in biology: Definition, Types and Importance AESL