Role of AST

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST)

plays an important role in the tricarboxylic acid cycle. AST is involved in the conversion of glutamate to α-ketoglutarate, and in the production of energy, which is essential for maintaining normal cell functioning and energy supply

. AST is

mainly present in liver, heart, muscle and other tissues, with high levels in the liver. Therefore, AST levels in blood can be used as one of the indicators for assessing liver function.