Acid-Base Homeostasis via Bicarbonate Precursor (Lactate Metabolism) (N/A)

Acid-base homeostasis is maintained, in part, by the metabolism of lactate to regenerate bicarbonate. This process primarily occurs in the liver, where lactate is converted to pyruvate and subsequently to glucose or oxidized in the Krebs cycle. These metabolic pathways consume hydrogen ions and generate bicarbonate, which can buffer excess acids. Lactated solutions are used therapeutically to correct metabolic acidosis, but their efficacy depends on intact hepatic function and tissue perfusion. Lactate also serves as an energy substrate and participates in inter-organ signaling related to redox state and ATP supply.

Other names

Lactate metabolism in acid-base balanceHepatic bicarbonate regeneration from lactateLactate as a bicarbonate precursorBicarbonate buffering via lactate

Lactate is metabolized in the liver (primarily) to produce bicarbonate, which buffers excess acids in the plasma.