mleczanu

Mleczan, or lactate, is the conjugate base of lactic acid (2-hydroxypropanoic acid) and the anion or salts derived from it. In chemistry, lactate refers to the lactate anion (C3H5O3−) and to salts such as sodium lactate (NaC3H5O3) and calcium lactate (Ca(C3H5O3)2). L- and D-lactate are mirror-image enantiomers; in biology, the L form is the predominant isomer produced and utilized by humans and many other animals.

In metabolism, lactate is formed from pyruvate during anaerobic glycolysis by lactate dehydrogenase, regenerating NAD+ needed for continued glycolysis. Lactate is transported across cell membranes by monocarboxylate transporters and can be converted back to pyruvate and then to glucose in the liver via the Cori cycle. L-lactate serves as a fuel for heart and brain under certain conditions, while D-lactate is produced by some gut bacteria; excessive D-lactate can contribute to metabolic acidosis in specific medical conditions.

Applications of mleczan include its use as a food additive and chemical buffer. Lactate salts such as sodium lactate are employed as acidity regulators, humectants, and preservatives in foods and cosmetics. In medicine, lactate-containing IV solutions (for example, lactated Ringer’s solution) are used for hydration and as buffers to help maintain pH balance during fluid therapy. Safety profiles are generally favorable for dietary use, though high levels of D-lactate can be problematic in certain individuals or clinical contexts.