LACTATE, NOT GLUCOSE, UP-REGULATES MITOCHONDRIAL OXYGEN CONSUMPTION BOTHIN SHAM AND LATERAL FLUID PERCUSSED RAT BRAINS

Abstract

Glucose sustains mitochondrial respiration at a low level "fixed" rate because, despite increasing its concentration nearly 100-fold, it cannot up-regulate VO2 after fluid percussion injury. Lactate produces a dose-dependent VO2 response, possibly enabling mitochondria to meet the increased energy needs of the injured brain.