Alanine-Aminotransferase

Alanine aminotransferase: role in the diagnosis of liver function

Alanine aminotransferase (ALAT) is an enzyme that plays an important role in the metabolism of amino acids in the body. It catalyzes the transfer of the amino group between alanine and α-ketoglutaric acid. ALT is found primarily in liver cells, but is also present in the heart, kidneys, muscles, and other organs.

Determination of ALT activity in blood serum is an important tool for diagnosing liver dysfunction. When the liver is damaged, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, liver cells are destroyed, which leads to an increase in the level of ALT in the blood. Therefore, if ALT levels are elevated, it may indicate liver problems.

However, elevated ALT levels do not always indicate liver problems. ALT levels may also increase with other medical conditions, such as heart or muscle disease, or with the use of certain medications.

In addition to diagnosing diseases, ALT levels can also be used to assess the effectiveness of treatment. If ALT levels are elevated before treatment and then decrease after treatment, this may indicate that treatment is working.

In general, determining the level of ALT is an important tool for diagnosing liver dysfunction and assessing the effectiveness of treatment. However, elevated ALT levels do not always indicate liver problems, so additional tests may be required to make a diagnosis.

Alanine aminotransferases or ALT are a group of enzymes involved in the metabolism of amino acids. Enzymes function as a transport system, carrying amino acid molecules (such as alanine) into and out of cells. This action ensures normal protein synthesis, as well as maintaining the functioning of the nervous system and other organs. Enzymes known as Alanine amidotransferase carry out this transfer. These substances are mainly found in the liver; That is why checking the alanine amidotransfer indicator is of particular importance when assessing the condition of the liver. While liver cell health deteriorates, Alanine amidotransfer activity may increase. Alanine aminotransases are produced by liver cells and can be measured in the blood. An increase in the level of enzymes in the blood is diagnosed by a doctor, since this symptom indicates health problems. These enzymes can also be increased by exercise and drinking alcoholic beverages. However, a more significant indicator is their reduction in the case of chronic liver disease.