Alpha-aminoadipate aminotransferase (AADAT)

Alpha-aminoadipate aminotransferase (AADAT) is a mitochondrial, pyridoxal phosphate-dependent enzyme that catalyzes the transamination of α-aminoadipate to glutamate in the terminal step of lysine degradation and also acts as kynurenine aminotransferase II, converting kynurenine to kynurenic acid—a neuroactive metabolite with neuroprotective properties[1][5]. AADAT is highly expressed in liver and kidney, where it supports amino acid catabolism, and also contributes to nitrogen metabolism and neurotransmitter homeostasis[1][5]. Genetic or functional alterations in AADAT have been linked to neurodevelopmental disorders (such as autism spectrum disorder), inflammatory/immune response changes, and metabolic/endocrine disturbances including thyroid hormone regulation[5]. Given its central role in amino acid and neuroactive metabolite regulation, AADAT is a potential therapeutic target in diverse pathologies involving metabolism, neurobiology, and immunity[5][3].

Other names

Kynurenine/alpha-aminoadipate aminotransferaseKynurenine aminotransferase IIKynurenine--oxoglutarate transaminase IIKynurenine aminotransferase 2KAT2KATIIKYAT2KAT/AadAT2-aminoadipate aminotransferaseGlycine transaminase AADATL-kynurenine/alpha-aminoadipate aminotransferase

(For experimental inhibitors) Inhibition blocks enzymatic transamination activity, reducing formation of kynurenic acid or metabolism of lysine pathway intermediates. Modulation alters levels of kynurenine pathway metabolites that impact neuroprotection/excitation.