SYN: alanine aminotransferase.
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(ALT) al·a·nine trans·am·i·nase (ALT) (alґə-nēn trans-amґĭ-nās) [EC 2.6.1.2] an enzyme of the transferase class that catalyzes the reversible transfer of an amino group from alanine to α-ketoglutarate to form glutamate and pyruvate, with pyridoxal phosphate as a cofactor. The reaction transfers nitrogen for excretion or for incorporation into other compounds. The enzyme is found in serum and body tissues, especially in the liver. Serum enzyme activity (SGPT) is greatly increased in liver disease and also elevated in infectious mononucleosis. Called also alanine aminotransferase and glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (GPT).Medical dictionary. 2011.