Question

The diagram shows the reversible conversion of pyruvate to lactate by the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase.
What would be the effect of inhibition of lactate dehydrogenase in a mammalian cell under anaerobic conditions?

• A. A decrease in cell pH, due to the accumulation of lactic acid
• B. A decrease in glycolysis, due to the lack of NAD
• C. An increase in ATP production, due to increased amount of reduced NAD
• D. An increase in the activity of the Krebs cycle, due to increased amounts of pyruvate

Answer 1

The correct option is A A decrease in cell pH, due to the accumulation of lactic acid

Lactate dehydrogenase is an important enzyme in fermentative glycolysis, generating most energy for cancer cells that rely on anaerobic respiration even under normal oxygen concentration.

So, the correct option is 'A decrease in cell pH, due to the accumulation of lactic acid'.