Aminotransferasen

Aminotransferases are a group of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of amino groups from amino acids to alpha-keto acids, producing new amino acids and keto acids. These enzymes play a crucial role in intermediary metabolism, particularly in amino acid metabolism and the urea cycle. They are classified into two main types: alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). ALT is primarily found in the liver, while AST is present in various tissues, including the liver, heart, and skeletal muscle. Elevated levels of these enzymes in the blood can indicate liver or muscle damage, respectively. Aminotransferases are essential for maintaining the balance of amino acids and for the synthesis of non-essential amino acids. They are also involved in the detoxification of ammonia, a toxic byproduct of protein metabolism, by converting it into urea. The activity of aminotransferases is regulated by various factors, including hormones, nutrients, and the body's metabolic state.