Lithium D-lactate is used as a reagent in organic synthesis in areas such as the leather, textile, and tanning industries. It may be used as a plasticizer, a catalyst, or an acidifying agent. Lactic acid has even been used as a flavoring agent in the manufacture of tobacco products.
In animals, lactic acid is a metabolic compound produced by proliferating cells and during anaerobic conditions such as strenuous exercise. Lactic acid can be oxidized back to pyruvate or converted to glucose via gluconeogenesis. Lactic acid is preferentially metabolized by neurons in several mammal species and during early brain development.
