Abstract
The exergetic efficiency of ATP production in the brain is assessed using two competing models: 1) the classical model, where both neuron and the astrocyte metabolise glucose; 2) the astrocyte–neuron lactate shuttle hypothesis (ANLSH), where astrocytes metabolise glucose to lactate, then shuttle it to the neuron for aerobic respiration. Exergy analyses showed that ATP production in neuronal mitochondrion is thermodynamically much more efficient than in the cytoplasm. Comparing the Cumulative Degree of Perfection (CDP) for pyruvate production under both models showed that pyruvate production in the cytoplasm causes less exergy loss when lactate is the energy source. Therefore, we predict that the lactate shuttle model is energetically more favourable to the neuron.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
