× Didn't find what you were looking for? Ask a question
Top Posters
Since Sunday
5
o
5
4
m
4
b
4
x
4
a
4
l
4
t
4
S
4
m
3
s
3
New Topic  
xax22 xax22
wrote...
Posts: 9
Rep: 0 0
9 years ago
Describe the mechanism of action of L-lactate dehydrogenase and discuss the experimental evidence that supports it.

In short I know the function of LDH , being a cytoplasmic enzyme and is responsible for catalyzing the oxidation of l-lactate to pyruvate in anaerobic glycolysis.    And how it does it ie the  steps etc. But when it comes to experimental evidence I have to look at stopped flow techniques , and I don't quite understand what that is showing and how it supports the mechanism.

Any help with this question would be appreciated.

Thank you
Read 800 times
1 Reply

Related Topics

Replies
wrote...
Staff Member
9 years ago
Hi xax22,

LDH combines pyruvate and NADH, producing lactic acid and NAD+. The NAD+ can then be recycled to do another round of glycolysis, quickly producing more energy for the sprint. However, lactic acid builds up and in a matter of a minute or so, you have to stop and let your body recover. As you catch your breath, your body converts the lactic acid back to pyruvate, where it enters your normal flow of aerobic energy production.

Our cells build two major types of lactate dehydrogenase: the M form and the H form (there is also a third form that is only made in sperm). These are very similar in size and shape, but they have different catalytic properties. The M form, which is the major form in your large skeletal muscles, is best at converting pyruvate to lactate. It stands ready to get to work if the muscles need to perform anaerobic exercise. The H form, on the other hand, is better at the opposite reaction, converting lactate to pyruvate. It is the major form in the heart, which has a constant supply of oxygen and can easily use lactate as an aerobic source of energy. The two types are so similar in structure that they form complexes with a mixture of both types, for instance, with two H chains and two M chains. In this way, different cells can tailor their lactate dehydrogenases to fit their current needs.
- Master of Science in Biology
- Bachelor of Science
New Topic      
Explore
Post your homework questions and get free online help from our incredible volunteers
  913 People Browsing
 111 Signed Up Today
Related Images
  
 12
  
 7658
  
 978
Your Opinion
Where do you get your textbooks?
Votes: 284