Molecular Classification
Enzyme, Aminotransferase
Other Names
Alanine transaminase, SGPT, GPT, Serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase, Glutamate pyruvate transaminase
Disease Roles
Liver diseaseHepatocellular injuryAlcohol-induced liver injury

Alanine Aminotransferase Overview

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme primarily found in the liver and, to a lesser extent, in other tissues. It plays a crucial role in amino acid metabolism by catalyzing the reversible transfer of an amino group from L-alanine to α-ketoglutarate. Serum ALT measurement is widely used as a biomarker for liver health, with elevated levels indicating hepatocellular injury or damage.

Mechanism of Action

N/A

Biological Functions

Amino acid metabolism
Catalysis
Alanine cycle

Disease Associations

Liver disease
Hepatocellular injury
Alcohol-induced liver injury
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD/MASLD)
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH)
Viral hepatitis B/C
Autoimmune hepatitis
Drug-induced liver injury
Hemochromatosis
Vascular diseases affecting the liver
Genetic disorders impacting hepatic function

Safety Considerations

  • Elevated ALT is sensitive but not specific, requiring further diagnostic workup
  • Elevated ALT indicates hepatocellular injury but does not specify the cause or severity of disease

Interacting Drugs

Hepatotoxic medications
Alcohol
Herbal supplements

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Serum ALT levels
AST/ALT ratio