Which enzyme is denoted by the acronym AST?

The enzyme referred to by the acronym AST is Aspartate aminotransferase. This enzyme plays a crucial role in amino acid metabolism, facilitating the transfer of an amino group from aspartate to α-ketoglutarate, resulting in the production of glutamate and oxaloacetate. AST is found in various tissues throughout the body, including the liver, heart, muscles, and kidneys, which makes it an important marker in assessing organ health.

When tissue damage occurs, such as in liver disease or myocardial infarction, AST is released into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels that can be detected through blood tests. This makes it a valuable enzyme for diagnosing and monitoring liver function and other conditions affecting the organs where it is normally found.

In contrast, the other options refer to different substances or enzymes. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is a separate enzyme that is also important in liver function, while alkaline phosphatase is involved in processes related to liver, bone, and bile duct function. Acetylsalicylic acid is a medication commonly known as aspirin and is not an enzyme. Consequently, these distinctions underscore why understanding the specific roles and functions of enzymes like AST is essential in biomedicine.