GlutamatOxalacetatTransaminase

Glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase, also known as aspartate aminotransferase (AST), is an enzyme found in various tissues of the body, particularly in the liver, heart, skeletal muscle, kidneys, and brain. It plays a crucial role in amino acid metabolism, catalyzing the transfer of an amino group from aspartate to alpha-ketoglutarate, forming oxaloacetate and glutamate. This reversible reaction is a key step in the urea cycle and gluconeogenesis.

AST is commonly measured in blood serum as part of liver function tests. Elevated levels of AST in the blood can indicate damage or inflammation to the tissues where it is found. For instance, significant increases in AST are often seen in cases of acute viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, cirrhosis, and drug-induced liver injury. Damage to the heart muscle, such as during a myocardial infarction, can also lead to a rise in AST levels. Muscle injury from conditions like rhabdomyolysis or strenuous exercise can also result in elevated AST. The degree of elevation can provide clues about the severity of the tissue damage.