The Aerobic Dissimilation of Lactic Acid by the Propionic Acid Bacteria

Abstract
Gas measurements show that the propionic acid bacteria utilize oxygen in their dissimilation of lactic acid. The most favorable pH for oxygen uptake is 5.3-5.6. Py-ruvic acid is a product of the dissimilation under the conditions of the expts. Products of the dissimilation of lactic acid and the oxygen utilized were quantitatively detd. and C and oxidation-reduction balances calculated, thus offering more complete information on the mechanism of aerobic dissimilation of lactic acid by propionic acid bacteria.