SCIENCE

Lactate's Hidden Talent: More Than Just Waste

Sat Sep 13 2025

Lactate, often seen as a byproduct of metabolism, has a secret life. It's not just waste.

A New Discovery

Recent research shows it can tag proteins, changing how genes work. This process, called lactylation, is a big deal. It affects everything from inflammation to cancer.

Understanding Lactate

  • Made when your body breaks down glucose for energy.
  • Scientists once thought it was just trash.
  • Now, they know it's more. It can stick to proteins, like a post-it note.
  • This changes how those proteins behave.

The Power of Lactylation

  • Lactylation is the name for this process.
  • It's like a switch. It can:
  • Turn genes on or off.
  • Change how proteins work.
  • This affects your health.
  • Plays a role in diseases like cancer and inflammation.

The Future of Research

Researchers are excited. They see potential:

  • Lactylation could be a target for new treatments.
  • But there's still much to learn.
  • This is just the beginning.

A Thought to Ponder

"Your body is full of surprises. What else are we missing? Maybe there's more to 'waste' products than we think. This could change how we see health and disease."

questions

    What specific physiological functions have been identified for lactate beyond its role in glycolysis?
    Are pharmaceutical companies suppressing natural lactylation treatments to sell their own drugs?
    Could lactylation be the reason why some people love lactose and others can't stand it?

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