Physical exercise and regulation of lactate: role of monocarboxylate transports (mct proteins)

Abstract

Studies demonstrate the existance of de 14 monocarboxylate transporters isoforms (MCTs), proteins of membrane which transport lactate and H+. In contrast, informations concerning the specific function of these several transporters are not specific. On the other hand, others are already well defined. So, the objective of this review was to clarify the effects of exercise on lactate transport and regulation by MCTs. MCT1 and MCT4 are found in muscle, suggesting, thus, distinct functions in the same tissue due to differences of lactate transport and, therefore, may respond differently to modifications in exercise intensities. In addition, its known that endurance training can increase MCT1 muscle content as well as the intense interval training may induce increase in MCT1 and MCT4. These alterations in MCTs contribute to pH control and improve of oxidative capacity.