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Updated: Jun 13, 2025

Hyperpolarized 13C Metabolic Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy and Imaging
Published on: December 30, 2016
Modern Perspective of Lactate Metabolism
J Vavřička1, P Brož, D Follprecht
1Department of Sports Medicine and Active Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Czech Republic, Jakub.vavricka@lfp.cuni.cz.
Abstract:
Once considered a metabolic waste product, today it is considered an important signaling molecule continuously forming under aerobic conditions. Lactate, a molecule primarily known as a byproduct of glycolysis, has gained importance in recent years due to its multifaceted role in various biological processes. Misconceptions surrounding lactate have persisted for centuries, especially the belief that elevated lactate levels were solely a result of low oxygen levels shaped early understanding. However, current research challenges this view and expands our comprehension of lactate's various roles. Unfortunately, despite all of the mentioned above lactate is rooted in modern society as a deterrent word and many people do not know its value in the human body, let alone clinical implementations or physical performance. The main goal of this review is to refresh current knowledge regarding lactate research and spread the overall information among a professional society. Key words: Lactate, Lactate metabolism, Lactic acid, Disease metabolism, Lactate shuttle.
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