Alanine aminotransferase

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme primarily found in the liver and kidney. It plays a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids, specifically the conversion of the amino acid alanine.

Function

ALT catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from alanine to alpha-ketoglutarate, the products of this reaction being glutamate and pyruvate. This reaction is reversible and can therefore function in both the synthesis and degradation of amino acids.

Clinical significance

ALT is commonly measured clinically as a part of a diagnostic evaluation of hepatocellular injury, to determine liver health. Elevated levels of ALT often suggest the presence of other medical problems such as hepatitis and cirrhosis, but can also indicate heart failure or myocardial infarction.

See also

• Aspartate aminotransferase
• Liver function tests
• Transaminase