How Do You Spell ASPARTATE AMINOTRANSFERASES?

1. Aspartate aminotransferases (ASTs), also known as aspartate transaminases or AST enzymes, are a group of enzymes that play a crucial role in the metabolism of amino acids, especially aspartate. These enzymes are found primarily in the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, kidneys, and the nervous system.

   ASTs are classified as a type of aminotransferase, a class of enzymes that catalyze the transfer of an amino group from an amino acid to a keto acid. In the case of ASTs, they specifically facilitate the conversion of aspartate to oxaloacetate, allowing for the synthesis of important molecules involved in energy production and the urea cycle.

   The levels of ASTs in the blood can serve as a valuable marker in the diagnosis and monitoring of various diseases, particularly those affecting the liver and heart. Elevated AST levels may indicate liver damage, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, or heart muscle damage, such as a heart attack. However, it is important to note that AST levels alone are not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis and need to be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical information and tests.

   The measurement of AST levels in blood is commonly done through a laboratory test called the AST blood test. During this test, a sample of blood is collected and analyzed using chemical reagents to quantify the concentration of AST present. Normal levels of AST in the blood can vary but are typically between 8 and 48 units per liter, depending on the laboratory reference range.

Common Misspellings for ASPARTATE AMINOTRANSFERASES

The term aspartate aminotransferases is a compound word derived from several components:

1. Aspartate: It originates from the Latin word asparaginum, meaning sparrow. The word was later used in chemistry to refer to a salt derivative of aspartic acid, which is one of the 20 common amino acids that form proteins.

2. Amino-: This prefix comes from the Greek word aminos, meaning nitrogen. It is used to indicate the presence of an amino group (-NH2) in a molecule.

3. Trans-: This prefix is derived from the Latin word trans, meaning across or beyond. In chemistry, it often indicates the transfer of a functional group from one molecule to another.

4. Transferases: This term is derived from the word transfer, which comes from Latin and means to carry across.