Ribose is synthesized from glucose and other monosaccharide molecules in living cells by a process known as pentose phosphate pathway. The pentose phosphate pathway is a series of chemical reactions taking place in the cytosol of cells.

Where is a ribose found?

Ribose, also called D-ribose, five-carbon sugar found in RNA (ribonucleic acid), where it alternates with phosphate groups to form the “backbone” of the RNA polymer and binds to nitrogenous bases.

How does ribose become Deoxyribose?

Deoxyribose is generated from ribose 5-phosphate by enzymes called ribonucleotide reductases. These enzymes catalyse the deoxygenation process.