Homolactic fermentation

Definition

Homolactic fermentation is a metabolic process by which glucose is converted into lactic acid with the generation of ATP. This process occurs in some bacteria and muscle cells under anaerobic conditions.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Produces 2 molecules of lactic acid from one molecule of glucose.
2. Does not generate carbon dioxide as a byproduct.
3. Occurs under anaerobic conditions, meaning it does not require oxygen.
4. Utilizes the enzyme lactate dehydrogenase to catalyze the conversion of pyruvate to lactate.
5. Commonly observed in certain bacteria like Lactobacillus and in human muscle cells during strenuous activity.

Review Questions

• What are the end products of homolactic fermentation?
• Which enzyme catalyzes the conversion of pyruvate to lactate in homolactic fermentation?
• Under what conditions does homolactic fermentation typically occur?

Related terms

Lactate Dehydrogenase:

An enzyme that catalyzes the interconversion of pyruvate and lactate with concomitant interconversion of NADH and NAD+.

Anaerobic Respiration:

A type of respiration that does not use oxygen and produces less energy than aerobic respiration.

Lactic Acid Bacteria: A group of Gram-positive bacteria, including Lactobacillus, that produce lactic acid as a major metabolic end product.