Lactic acid metabolism

Lactic acid metabolism refers to the production, clearance, and utilization of lactic acid (lactate) in biological systems. Lactic acid (2-hydroxypropanoic acid) is a key intermediary metabolite formed primarily from pyruvate via glycolysis, especially under hypoxic or anaerobic conditions, through the action of the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)[1][2][4]. Lactic acid may then be oxidized back to pyruvate (notably in the liver and heart), converted into glucose via gluconeogenesis, or used as an energy source by various tissues[1][3][4]. Abnormalities in lactic acid metabolism are implicated in many diseases, including cancer (where tumors show elevated lactate, the "Warburg effect"), cardiovascular disease, sepsis, and neurodegenerative disorders[1][4]. It is important to note that while "lactic acid metabolism" is not itself a druggable target, several components involved in lactate metabolism—such as lactate dehydrogenase and monocarboxylate transporters—are established or emerging therapeutic targets[1][2][4]. Key integration points: - The query does not map to a specific molecule or gene, but rather an entire set of metabolic processes. - The most relevant molecular drug targets "within" lactic acid metabolism are **Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)** and **Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs)**, which should be consulted separately if a molecular target entry is required[2][4]. - Clinical interventions tend to monitor **serum lactate** as a biomarker rather than modulate "lactic acid metabolism" as a whole[1][5]. In summary, "Lactic acid metabolism" does **not** refer to a distinct molecule or canonical drug target; the entry should be flagged as incorrect for target-mapping. For structured and actionable molecular targets, refer to molecules such as "Lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)" or "Monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1)".

Other names

Glycolytic fluxAnaerobic glycolysisLactate metabolismLactic acid pathway