It forms after glucose reacts with primary amino groups of lysine or arginine found in proteins.

Because of the increased concentration of the reactant glucose, more 3DG forms with excessive blood sugar levels, as in uncontrolled diabetes.

The products from the reaction of 3DG with protein amino groups are called advanced glycation end-products (AGEs).

[14] Specifically, 3DG induces heparin-binding epidermal growth factor, a smooth muscle mitogen that is abundant in atherosclerotic plaques.

[22] AG reduces AGE associated retinal, neural, arterial, and renal pathologies in animal models.