BL-Lactate Dehydrogenase

LDH is an enzyme found in almost all living cells, including bacteria, plants, and animals. It participates in the glycolysis process, which converts glucose into energy.

LDH is essential for energy production in the body, especially during intense exercise or when oxygen levels are low. When oxygen levels fall below a certain threshold, the body may switch to anaerobic metabolism, which involves the breakdown of glucose without the use of oxygen. This process generates lactate, which LDH then converts back into glucose. This cycle, known as the lactate shuttle, is critical for providing energy to the body’s cells. Because it is released into the bloodstream when cells are damaged or destroyed, LDH is also used as a diagnostic marker for a variety of medical conditions. Elevated LDH levels in the blood may indicate organ damage, such as damage to the heart, liver, or kidneys, or it may be a sign of certain types of cancer.