The Influence of Anaerobiosis on Human Erythrocyte Metabolism

Abstract

Anaerobiosis caused a small increase in lactate production when oxygenated and deoxygenated human erythrocytes had similar initial and final pH values. This change could be attributed to PFK [phosphofructokinase] activation. Under physiological conditions, PK [pyruvate kinase] also appeared to be activated, as judged by the marked decrease in 3-PGA [3-phosphoglycerate] concentration. When the pH rise associated with deoxygenation was allowed to take place, a 3-fold greater increase in lactate production was observed.