What process does the Cori Cycle primarily facilitate?

The Cori Cycle primarily facilitates the process of glucose formation from lactate. This metabolic pathway occurs in the liver, where lactate produced during anaerobic glycolysis in muscles is converted back into glucose through gluconeogenesis. When muscles engage in high-intensity exercise, they produce lactate due to insufficient oxygen for complete aerobic metabolism. The lactate then enters the bloodstream and is transported to the liver, where it is transformed into glucose. This newly synthesized glucose can then be released back into circulation and used by muscles for energy, thus contributing to the body's overall energy balance during and after exercise. This cycle plays a critical role in maintaining blood glucose levels and providing energy during prolonged physical activity.