What is the ultimate product of pyruvate in lactic acid fermentation?

In lactic acid fermentation, the ultimate product of pyruvate is L-lactate. This metabolic pathway occurs primarily in muscle cells during anaerobic conditions when oxygen is scarce. In anaerobic glycolysis, glucose is converted into pyruvate, and then in the absence of oxygen, this pyruvate is reduced to L-lactate by lactate dehydrogenase.

This process serves several purposes, such as regenerating NAD+ needed for glycolysis to continue, allowing ATP production to persist even when oxygen levels are low. The conversion of pyruvate to L-lactate is crucial in facilitating energy production during intense exercise when the body cannot supply sufficient oxygen for complete aerobic respiration.

It’s important to differentiate this from other products mentioned. Acetaldehyde, for instance, is a product in alcoholic fermentation, not lactic acid fermentation, and ethylene and glycerate are not relevant products in this specific metabolic pathway. Thus, the formation of L-lactate from pyruvate is a key characteristic of lactic acid fermentation.