GMP consists of the phosphate group, the pentose sugar ribose, and the nucleobase guanine; hence it is a ribonucleotide monophosphate.

GMP synthesis starts with D-ribose 5′-phosphate, a product of the pentose phosphate pathway.

[2] As inhibitor of guanosine monophosphate synthesis in experimental models, the glutamine analogue DON can be used.

The drying process significantly increases GMP content with the breakdown of RNA.

Disodium guanylate is often found in instant noodles, potato chips and snacks, savoury rice, tinned vegetables, cured meats, and packet soup.