Aminotransferase

/əˌmiːnoʊˈtrænsfərˌeɪs/ noun

Definition

An enzyme that moves amino groups from one molecule to another, playing a critical role in protein and amino acid metabolism.

Etymology

From amino- + trans- (Latin for across) + ferre (Latin for carry) + -ase (enzyme suffix). These enzymes are essential for transferring amino groups in cells.

Kelly Says

When doctors check your liver or muscle health with a blood test, they're measuring aminotransferases like AST and ALT—when these enzymes leak into your blood, it signals tissue damage, making them invisible health detectives.

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