TIGAR also known as C12orf5 is regulated as part of the p53 tumor suppressor pathway, which is vital for maintaining genomic stability and preventing tumorigenesis. TIGAR functions by modulating the glycolytic pathway; TIGAR shares sequence similarity with the fructose-2,6-bisphosphate degrading enzyme, allowing TIGAR to lower intracellular levels of fructose-2,6-bisphosphate. This action effectively inhibits glycolysis and redirects metabolic flux towards the pentose phosphate pathway, which is essential for generating NADPH and ribose-5-phosphate. By decreasing the concentration of reactive oxygen species, TIGAR helps protect cells from oxidative stress, which can lead to DNA damage and apoptosis.