COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 238
Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST)
AST is an important enzyme concentrated in the liver, heart,
skeletal muscle, and kidneys. It plays a central role in amino acid
metabolism, supports cellular energy production, and contributes
to the detoxification of ammonia through the urea cycle.
Clinically, AST serves as a valuable indicator of tissue health. When
cells in the liver, heart, or muscles are damaged, AST is released
into the bloodstream. Elevated levels can signal liver damage,
while lower levels may indicate deficiencies or malabsorption.
Range
Units
Conventional
0 - 40 IU/L
Optimal / Functional
10 - 30 IU/L
Alarm
> 100 IU/L
When to run this test:
● To investigate cardiovascular and/or liver problems
● As a gateway test for B6 deficiency
Alanine Amino-Transferase (ALT)
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is an enzyme produced mainly in
the liver and released into the bloodstream when liver cells are
damaged. It’s a key marker for assessing liver health, as elevated
levels often point to liver injury, inflammation, or biliary dysfunction.
ALT is more specific to liver tissue than other enzymes, making it
especially useful for detecting liver-related issues.
Range
Units
Conventional
0 - 45 IU/L
238
