Pyruvic acid, which is ionized to pyruvate in the human body, is produced when you break down glucose for energy while exercising. However, it is not simply a waste product of glucose breakdown. Rather, it plays a role in a variety of biological functions vital to your health.
Energy Production
Even after you have finished exercising, pyruvate in your body may be used for energy production. To produce energy, pyruvate is first converted to a molecule named acetyl-CoA. Acetyl-CoA enters a metabolic pathway called the citric acid cycle. In the citric acid cycle, electrons are harvested and used to produce energy in the mitochondria, which is the powerhouse of the cell, according to Elmhurst College.
Glucose Synthesis
Though pyruvate is produced by the breakdown of glucose for energy, it can also be used in the metabolic pathway of gluconeogenesis to synthesize glucose. Glucose synthesis usually takes place when the body has sufficient amounts of energy and is looking to store energy in the form of glucose. During gluconeogenesis, multiple enzyme-catalyzed reactions take place in the liver to rebuild glucose from pyruvate. Glucose reserves in your liver are used to supply vital organs such as your heart and brain with sufficient levels of glucose when needed, according to Elmhurst College.
Amino Acid Synthesis
Pyruvate can also be used to synthesize the amino acid alanine through an enzyme-catalyzed process known as transamination. Alanine is considered a nonessential amino acid; it can be synthesized by your body, and does not need to be ingested. Alanine has many functions in the body, including protein synthesis, transport of nitrogen waste for elimination, providing the liver with pyruvate for gluconeogenesis and overall prostate health, according to the Vitamin & Health Supplements Guide.
Lactic Acid Production
If you are exercising at a high intensity, your cells may use up oxygen faster than you are able to breathe it in. In these low-oxygen, or anaerobic conditions, pyruvate undergoes the enzyme-mediated conversion to lactic acid. Lactic acid may be responsible for the burning sensation you experience when exercising vigorously, though the exact mechanism of how this occurs is unclear, says kinesiologist Stephen M. Roth. Contrary to popular belief, lactic acid is not the culprit for soreness experienced days after working out, Roth says.
Member Comments