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Which of the following enzymes involved in transamination reaction are often used for liver function tests
  • a)
    Aspartate transaminase       
  • b)
    Polynucleotide transferase
  • c)
    Lactate dehydrogenase    
  • d)
    Glutamine oxidase
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
Verified Answer
Which of the following enzymes involved in transamination reaction are...
Alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase (sGPT and sGOT) are commonly used serum biomarkers for hepatic health.
SGPT (Alanine amino transferase): There is high concentration of SGPT in the liver. This enzyme is present in the cytosolic and mitochondrial forms in the liver. SGPT enzyme is specific for the liver cell necrosis. In case of liver cell necrosis, first cytosolic SGPT is released and then mitochondrial SGPT is released into circulation. There is always a low level of SGPT in the blood under normal conditions. However, the levels of SGPT increase in case of liver disease.      
SGOT (Asparate amino transferase) : This enzyme is found in high concentration in liver, heart and skeletal muscles. SGOT is released into circulation in liver diseases. The amount of SGOT is directly related to the number of cells injured.
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Most Upvoted Answer
Which of the following enzymes involved in transamination reaction are...
Enzymes Involved in Transamination Reaction for Liver Function Tests

The correct answer to the question is option 'A', which is Aspartate transaminase (AST). Let's understand why AST is often used for liver function tests.


  • Introduction to Transamination Reaction:

  • Transamination is a biochemical process that involves the transfer of an amino group from an amino acid to a keto acid, resulting in the formation of a new amino acid and a new keto acid. This reaction is catalyzed by a group of enzymes known as transaminases or aminotransferases.
  • Role of Transaminases in Liver Function Tests:

  • Liver function tests are a set of blood tests that help assess the health and functioning of the liver. Transaminases, including AST and alanine transaminase (ALT), are commonly measured in liver function tests as they are primarily found in liver cells and are released into the bloodstream when liver cells are damaged or injured.
  • AST and Its Significance:

  • Aspartate transaminase (AST), also known as serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), is an enzyme that catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from aspartate to alpha-ketoglutarate, resulting in the formation of oxaloacetate and glutamate. AST is found in various tissues, including the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, and kidneys. However, the highest concentration of AST is found in the liver.
  • AST as a Marker for Liver Function:

  • When liver cells are damaged or injured, AST is released into the bloodstream, leading to an increase in its blood levels. Therefore, measuring the levels of AST in the blood can indicate liver damage or disease. Elevated AST levels are observed in various liver conditions, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer.
  • Comparison with Other Enzymes:

  • Polynucleotide transferase (option B) is not an enzyme involved in transamination reactions and is not used as a marker for liver function tests. Lactate dehydrogenase (option C) is an enzyme involved in the conversion of lactate to pyruvate and is used as a marker for various conditions, including liver damage. However, AST is more specific to liver damage. Glutamine oxidase (option D) is not an enzyme involved in transamination reactions and is not used as a marker for liver function tests.


In conclusion, Aspartate transaminase (AST) is often used as an enzyme for liver function tests because it is primarily found in liver cells and its blood levels increase when there is liver damage or injury.
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Which of the following enzymes involved in transamination reaction are often used for liver function testsa)Aspartate transaminase b)Polynucleotide transferasec)Lactate dehydrogenase d)Glutamine oxidaseCorrect answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?
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