Role of Lactate Dehydrogenase in Lactate Fermentation

Very Hard Biochemistry Metabolism

In anaerobic conditions, mammalian cells can convert pyruvate into lactate through a process called lactate fermentation. This process is relevant in situations where oxygen is limited, such as during intense exercise. Lactate can be utilized by the liver through the Cori cycle to generate glucose. Consider the enzymatic reactions involved in the conversion of pyruvate to lactate, particularly focusing on the role of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and the influence of NAD⁺ and NADH on the reaction direction.

Which of the following statements best describes the role of lactate dehydrogenase in this metabolic pathway?

Lactate dehydrogenase catalyzes the conversion of lactate to pyruvate using NADH as a cofactor.

Lactate dehydrogenase catalyzes the reduction of pyruvate to lactate while oxidizing NADH to NAD<sup>+</sup>.

Lactate dehydrogenase catalyzes the hydrolysis of lactate to produce pyruvate and free NAD<sup>+</sup>.

Lactate dehydrogenase is involved in the phosphorylation of lactate to form lactate-1-phosphate.

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