A deficiency in which enzyme leads to decreased reduced glutathione and hemolytic anemia from oxidizing drugs?

The correct answer is associated with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency, which plays a critical role in the pentose phosphate pathway. G6PD is essential for the conversion of glucose-6-phosphate into 6-phosphogluconolactone while concurrently reducing NADP+ to NADPH. NADPH is vital for maintaining the levels of reduced glutathione in cells, which acts as a powerful antioxidant and helps protect red blood cells from oxidative damage.

When there is a deficiency in G6PD, the body cannot produce sufficient NADPH, leading to decreased reduced glutathione levels. This reduced capacity to neutralize reactive oxygen species results in oxidative stress on red blood cells, making them more susceptible to damage, especially when exposed to oxidizing agents—such as certain drugs (e.g., sulfa drugs, antimalarials, and some antibiotics). The oxidative stress can lead to hemolytic anemia, characterized by the premature destruction of red blood cells.

The other enzymes listed are not related to this particular condition. Urease is involved in the urea cycle, fructokinase is important in fructose metabolism, and galactose-1-phosphate uridyltransferase is