The Cori cycle triggers when the muscles need energy.
Lactate is a substance produced by the cells.
The Cori cycle involves turning lactate into glucose because the body cannot use lactate for energy.
skaman306 / Getty Images
skaman306 / Getty Images
What Is the Cori Cycle?
Our muscles require glucose (sugar) for energy during exercise.
This is known as anaerobic exercise, any exercise that occurs in the absence of oxygen.
This need for quick energy triggers the Cori cycle.
This is because our cells cannot use lactate for energy.
Why Is the Cori Cycle Important?
Once this process takes place, the muscles can then use glucose for energy.
Gluconeogenesis is the pathway in which glucose is produced in the body.
When lactate builds up in the muscles, it can decrease exercise performance.
When it is not removed, it can cause the muscles to become acidotic.
Where Does the Cori Cycle Occur?
When the muscles do not have enough oxygen to sustain activity, lactate can build up.
The problem is that after prolonged periods of time, lactate accumulation occurs and muscles may begin to fatigue.
It is characterized by a deficiency of the debrancher enzyme, amylo-1, 6-glucosidase.
Treatment includes dietary changes that focus on protein-rich foods and monitoring blood sugar and ketones.
During this process, the muscles and liver work together to remove lactate and recycle it as glucose.
Work with your healthcare provider to develop the right physical activity plan for you.
The Cori cycle causes the recirculation of glucose back to muscle tissue for the use of energy during exercise.
The muscles cannot use lactate on their own; it must be recycled into glucose for energy use.
National Library of Medicine.
