What is the Cori cycle?

What is the Cori cycle?

• A. Conversion of glucose to lactate in the muscles during aerobic respiration
• B. Breakdown of glucose in the brain
• C. Conversion of amino acids to glucose in the liver
• D. Conversion of lactate to glucose in the liver during anaerobic glycolysis

Answer: (D)

The Cori cycle describes how lactate produced by anaerobic glycolysis in working muscles is transported to the liver, where it is converted back into glucose through gluconeogenesis. This glucose is then released into the bloodstream to be reused by muscles. This shuttle helps clear lactate buildup during intense exercise and regenerates a usable fuel for muscle cells, keeping energy flowing when oxygen is limited.

The Cori cycle describes how lactate produced by anaerobic glycolysis in working muscles is transported to the liver, where it is converted back into glucose through gluconeogenesis. This glucose is then released into the bloodstream to be reused by muscles. This shuttle helps clear lactate buildup during intense exercise and regenerates a usable fuel for muscle cells, keeping energy flowing when oxygen is limited.