Which description correctly states the main outputs of the pentose phosphate pathway and how they are produced?

• A. PPP generates NADPH and ribose-5-phosphate for nucleotide synthesis; the oxidative phase yields NADPH, and the non-oxidative phase provides sugar interconversions to ribose-5-phosphate or glycolytic intermediates.
• B. PPP generates ATP directly for energy.
• C. PPP uses CO2 as a substrate to generate amino acids.
• D. PPP is inactive in erythrocytes.

Answer: (A)