What is the phosphocreatine inorganic phosphate ratio?

Answer 1

The ratio of inorganic phosphate to phosphocreatine reflects the relative metabolic rate of mitochondrial respiration (V) and the extrapolated maximum capacity of oxidative metabolism (Vm). Normal humans vary considerably in their metabolic response to exercise. These differences are reflected in their Vms and the degree of acidosis during exercise. Active muscles in endurance trained athletes have higher Vms and faster recovery rates than normal controls. Preliminary studies have been done to assess muscle glycolytic capacity by measuring the degree of acidosis during ischaemic exercise. Exercise-induced muscle injury can be detected as an increased inorganic phosphate to phosphocreatine ratio in resting muscle.

Answer 2

The phosphocreatine to inorganic phosphate ratio is a measure of cellular energy status in tissues. It reflects the balance between stored high-energy phosphates (phosphocreatine) and the products of ATP breakdown (inorganic phosphate). Changes in this ratio can indicate shifts in energy demand or supply in the cell.