Lactate, an underestimated molecule in nerve regeneration

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Metabolism
• Cellular Biology

Background:

• Lactate is a key metabolite in energy metabolism.
• Lactate also demonstrates neuroregenerative and neuroprotective functions.
• Its role in the nervous system is multifaceted and increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diverse roles of lactate in neuroregeneration.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying lactate's neuroprotective effects.
• To explore therapeutic applications of lactate in neurological disorders.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on lactate's role in neuroregeneration.
• Analysis of lactate's involvement in lactylation, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity, and monocarboxylate transporter (MCT) function.
• Examination of lactate's impact on axonal growth and its antioxidant/anti-inflammatory properties.

Main Results:

• Lactate influences neuroregeneration through lactylation, with LDH subunits playing distinct roles in damage and protection.
• Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) regulate neuronal energy metabolism and lactate shuttling, impacting neuroregeneration.
• Lactate promotes axonal growth and offers neuroprotection via antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• Lactate plays a significant role in neuroregeneration through various molecular pathways.
• Further research is needed to fully understand lactate's mechanisms and therapeutic potential.
• Lactate holds promise for treating central and peripheral nervous system conditions.