In the ALT assay using pyruvate, what is the reaction product?

Prepare for the Clinical Chemistry Numericals Test. Study with comprehensive questions, each with detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and excel on your exam!

Multiple Choice

In the ALT assay using pyruvate, what is the reaction product?

Explanation:
Alanine aminotransferase catalyzes a transamination that produces pyruvate from alanine (with α-ketoglutarate accepting the amino group to form glutamate). In the common clinical ALT assay, that pyruvate is then immediately acted on by lactate dehydrogenase, using NADH to reduce pyruvate to lactate. This coupled step converts NADH to NAD+, so the observable products of the overall assay are lactate and NAD+. That is why the reaction product is lactate plus NAD+. The assay readout relies on the decrease in NADH absorbance at 340 nm, reflecting ALT activity.

Alanine aminotransferase catalyzes a transamination that produces pyruvate from alanine (with α-ketoglutarate accepting the amino group to form glutamate). In the common clinical ALT assay, that pyruvate is then immediately acted on by lactate dehydrogenase, using NADH to reduce pyruvate to lactate. This coupled step converts NADH to NAD+, so the observable products of the overall assay are lactate and NAD+. That is why the reaction product is lactate plus NAD+. The assay readout relies on the decrease in NADH absorbance at 340 nm, reflecting ALT activity.

More Multiple Choice Questions
Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy