Aspartate transferase

Aspartate transferase (also known as AST or SGOT) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids. It is primarily found in the liver, heart, skeletal muscle, kidneys, brain, and red blood cells.

Function

Aspartate transferase catalyzes the conversion of aspartate and alpha-ketoglutarate into oxaloacetate and glutamate. This reaction is a part of the malate-aspartate shuttle, which is used by cells to transport electrons across the mitochondrial membrane.

Clinical significance

Elevated levels of aspartate transferase in the blood can indicate damage to organs rich in this enzyme, such as the liver or heart. Therefore, measuring the levels of this enzyme can be useful in diagnosing conditions such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and myocardial infarction.

See also

• Alanine transaminase
• Liver function tests
• Myocardial infarction

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