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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
06:18
Mapping Metabolism: Monitoring Lactate Dehydrogenase Activity Directly in Tissue
Published on: June 21, 2018
Current trends in lactate metabolism: introduction.
1Department of Kinesiology, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849-5323, USA. gladdlb@auburn.edu
Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise
|April 2, 2008
Summary
Lactate is no longer just a metabolic byproduct; it's a key player in cell-to-cell transport and signaling. Emerging research confirms lactate's role in metabolism and gene expression, establishing it as a vital signaling molecule.
Area of Science:
- Exercise Physiology
- Cellular Metabolism
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The cell-to-cell lactate shuttle is now an established theory, providing a framework for understanding whole-body metabolism.
- The role of lactate in acid-base balance remains a subject of ongoing scientific discussion and investigation.
Discussion:
- Evidence supports the existence of an intracellular lactate shuttle and a lactate oxidation complex within the inner mitochondrial membrane.
- Lactate's function extends beyond energy substrate to include potential roles as a cell-signaling molecule, termed "lactormone."
Key Insights:
- The cell-to-cell lactate shuttle theory is well-supported by key evidence.
- Lactate is implicated in regulating gene and protein expression, suggesting a broader physiological role.
- The intracellular lactate shuttle and mitochondrial lactate oxidation are critical components of lactate metabolism.
Outlook:
- Further research into lactate as a signaling molecule ("lactormone") is warranted.
- Continued investigation into lactate's role in acid-base balance will refine our understanding of cellular physiology.
- The established lactate shuttle theory will continue to guide research in exercise physiology and metabolism.
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