Transzamináció

Transzamináció is a fundamental biochemical process where an amino group is transferred from an amino acid to a keto acid. This reaction is catalyzed by enzymes called transaminases or aminotransferases. The most common coenzyme involved is pyridoxal phosphate (PLP), a derivative of vitamin B6. The general reaction involves the transfer of the alpha-amino group of an amino acid to the alpha-keto group of a keto acid, resulting in the formation of a new amino acid and a new keto acid. This reversible reaction is crucial for the synthesis and degradation of amino acids, playing a vital role in amino acid metabolism. Transaminases are particularly important in the liver, where they are involved in the synthesis of non-essential amino acids and the detoxification of ammonia. Certain transaminases, such as alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST), are commonly measured in blood tests as indicators of liver damage, as their levels can rise significantly when liver cells are injured. This process is essential for maintaining nitrogen balance within the body and for the production of various metabolic intermediates.