Aminotransferase
Aminotransferase is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in amino acid metabolism. It facilitates the transfer of an amino group from an amino acid to a keto acid, which is essential for the synthesis and breakdown of proteins. Two important types of aminotransferases are alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), commonly measured in blood tests to assess liver function.
Elevated levels of aminotransferases in the blood can indicate liver damage or disease, as these enzymes are released into the bloodstream when liver cells are injured. Monitoring aminotransferase levels helps healthcare providers diagnose conditions such as hepatitis and fatty liver disease.