Biochem/physiol Actions Ribose is an aldopentose monosaccharide that is phosphorylated into D-ribose 5-phosphate by ribokinase. Ribose-5-phosphate supports the biosynthesis of tryptophan and histidine and is a component of the pentose phosphate pathway. Suitability This D-ribose has been qualified for use as a supplement in cell culture.
• For an evaluation of the potential of D-ribose as an enantiopure building block for construction of the C-ring of taxol, see: J. Org. Chem., 60, 7849 (1995).