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ALT

Meaning

ALT, or Alanine Aminotransferase, is a crucial enzyme primarily found within liver cells, serving as a biochemical indicator of hepatic health. It catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from alanine to $alpha$-ketoglutarate, producing pyruvate and glutamate, a key step in amino acid metabolism. In a clinical context, elevated serum levels of this enzyme suggest damage or injury to the liver tissue, causing the enzyme to leak into the bloodstream. Monitoring ALT is a standard component of comprehensive metabolic panels, particularly important when considering hormonal therapies that may affect liver function.