In human skeletal muscle, during anaerobic exercise the pyruvate formed from glycolysis is converted to lactate. Why is this reaction important?Question 4

This reaction is important for a couple of reasons:

1. Regeneration of NAD+: During high-intensity exercise, the demand for ATP (energy) is high. Glycolysis is one way the body produces ATP. However, glycolysis requires NAD+ to function. The conversion of pyruvate to lactate regenerates the NAD+ needed for glycolysis to continue and for ATP to be produced.

2. Prevention of Pyruvate Accumulation: If the pyruvate produced during glycolysis were to accumulate, it could disrupt the cell's acid-base balance and impair muscle contraction. By converting pyruvate to lactate, the body prevents this potential problem.

3. Lactate can be used as a fuel: Although lactate is often thought of as a waste product, it can actually be used as a fuel by various tissues in the body, including the heart and brain. It can also be converted back into glucose in the liver through a process called gluconeogenesis.

So, in summary, the conversion of pyruvate to lactate during anaerobic exercise is important for maintaining the energy supply, preventing the accumulation of pyruvate, and providing an additional source of fuel.