File:Pathology of G6PD deficiency.png Wikimedia Commons In G6PD deficiency (XR), we have increased oxidative damage to RBCs, leading to intravascular hemolysis with decreased serum haptoglobin. We have decreased NADPH production, which means decreased conversion of oxidized ( S S ) glutathione Pentose Phosphate Pathway made simple. This pathway has two major jobs: Generate NADPH Produce ribose 5 phosphate NADPH protects cells from oxidative stress and supports fatty acid, cholesterol, steroid, nitric oxide, and respiratory burst Glucose 6 Phosphate Dehydrogenase