The main representatives of aminotransferases (ATs) in biochemistry are ALT (GPT) and AsAT. These enzymes are directly involved in protein-carbohydrate metabolism, which is very important for vital activity, which occurs in almost all cells of the body.
Despite their similar functions, aminotransferases have some selectivity in relation to internal organs and tissues. For AlanineAminoTransferase, the main field of activity is the liver, it is here that the maximum content of this enzyme is established.
Aspartate AminoTransferase exhibits the greatest enzymatic activity in the heart muscle, therefore, isolated changes in the indicator play a signaling role in the search for heart diseases and myocardial infarction in particular. It is present in a significant amount in the musculature of the musculoskeletal system and hepatocytes, therefore, an increase indicates destructive processes (damage: inflammatory, traumatic, toxic) in muscle and liver tissue.
When calculating the balance of AsAT-ALAT, it becomes possible to predict with a high degree of probability exactly where the problem has arisen in the body. For example: if only Aspartate AT is changed, the disease is present in the heart. If on the contrary, or GPT is much higher, the problem is most likely in the liver. With relatively similar elevated numbers and the absence of pathology on the part of other hepatic markers, it is necessary to pay attention to the skeletal muscles or the pancreas. More sophisticated diagnostics takes into account the quantitative value of GOT-GPT.
AsAT is a rather variable value, it can differ both depending on the laboratory (methods, reagents) and on the scientific school. The generally accepted norms are up to 40 U / l, and according to other sources: for men - 37, for women - 31.
Although GOT is highly sensitive, its specificity is poor. It is almost never defined separately. Even if a heart attack is suspected, the study is supplemented by establishing the concentration of LDH, troponins, etc. When diagnosing dysfunction of the hepato-biliary system, AsAT-ALAT is an inseparable pair.
In the complex Aspartate AminoTransferase is used in the study of autoimmune processes, generalized and severe infections, diseases of the pancreas and skeletal muscles (myositis, dystrophy).
Despite its low specificity, the definition of transferases should never be ignored. If you develop any symptoms corresponding to the above conditions, the study of the GOT-GPT level is mandatory.
