Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is a metabolic enzyme instrumental in converting amino acids into glucose (gluconeogenesis). It is found primarily in the liver but also in the kidney, pancreas, and muscle including the heart. Damage to any of these tissues can increase ALT in the blood.
Increased levels can be seen with liver disease, gallbladder disease, pancreatitis, alcohol ingestion, myocardial infarction, muscle damage, inflammation, mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr infection), medication use (e.g., acetaminophen), and metabolic disorders including obesity, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, and type 2 diabetes.
Low levels are also associated with dysfunction as well and can be seen with frailty, aging, cardiovascular disease, and cancer mortality.
CLICK HERE to learn more about ALT, health consequences, optimal ranges, etc.