MCAT Biochemistry Question 131: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 131
11. A man is given antibiotics to treat a urinary tract infection and develops an episode of red blood cell lysis. Further studies show weakness of the plasma membrane and Heinz bodies (collections of oxidized hemoglobin). Which of the following enzymes is most likely defective in this patient?
- A. Fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase
- B. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase
- C. Hexokinase
- D. Pyruvate kinase
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
Based on the question stem, we can infer that the antibiotics must have been an oxidative stress on the patient (indeed, antibiotics, antimalarial medications, infections, certain foods like fava beans, and other common exposures can induce an oxidative stress). The pentose phosphate pathway is responsible for generating NADPH, which is used to reduce glutathione, one of the natural antioxidants present in the body. In individuals with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G 6PD) deficiency, NADPH cannot be produced at sufficient levels, and oxidative stresses lead to cell membrane and protein (hemoglobin) damage. Note that you do not need to actually know the disease to answer this question; merely knowing that the enzyme must be from the pentose phosphate pathway, which is involved in mitigating oxidative stress, is sufficient.