Transaminatsioonides

Transaminatsioonides is a metabolic process that involves the transfer of an amino group from an amino acid to a keto acid. This reaction is catalyzed by a group of enzymes called transaminases, also known as aminotransferases. The most common coenzyme involved in transamination is pyridoxal phosphate (PLP), a derivative of vitamin B6.

In this reaction, the amino group is typically removed from an alpha-amino acid and transferred to an alpha-keto acid, forming a new amino acid and a new keto acid. This process is crucial for the synthesis and degradation of amino acids. For instance, transamination plays a key role in the synthesis of non-essential amino acids, where an amino group can be transferred from an existing amino acid to a carbon skeleton to create a new one. It is also involved in the catabolism of amino acids, preparing them for further breakdown and energy production or for conversion into other metabolic intermediates.

The liver is a primary site for transamination reactions, as it plays a central role in amino acid metabolism and detoxification. Transaminases are also found in various other tissues, including muscle, kidney, and brain, reflecting the widespread importance of amino acid interconversion. Measuring the levels of specific transaminases in the blood, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), is a common diagnostic tool used to assess liver health and detect liver damage, as elevated levels often indicate cellular injury in these organs.