The Biochemistry of Movement > 9.7.10. Sprinting involves muscle contracting powerfully and rapidly and utilizes type 2 muscle cells > The Production of 2-Hydroxypropanic (Lactic) Acid >
Explain the possible relationship between the production of 2-hydroxypropanic (lactic) acid during anaerobic respiration and the impairment of muscle contractions by changes in cellular pH
- In an anaerobic environment, the pyruvate produced during glycolysis is reduced to lactic acid
- 2-hydroxypropanic (lactic) acid produced during heavy exercise lowers cellular pH. Lowering the pH can cause the denaturing of enzymes. This can impair muscle contractions, causing the possibility of cramps.
- When oxygen levels in the body increase again following intense exercise, muscle cells will go back to aerobic respiration.