Aspartate Aminotransferase (AST) Unit Converter

Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), also known as SGOT, is an enzyme that helps transfer amino groups between molecules as part of your body's energy production and protein metabolism.

While AST is often called a liver enzyme, it is found throughout the body, including the liver, heart, skeletal muscles, kidneys, brain, and red blood cells. When cells in these tissues are damaged, AST leaks into the bloodstream.

AST is typically measured alongside ALT (alanine aminotransferase). Because ALT is found mainly in the liver, while AST is in multiple organs, comparing the two helps determine whether elevated enzymes are coming from liver damage or elsewhere.

AST is found in highest concentrations in the liver and heart, with significant amounts also in skeletal muscles, kidneys, brain, pancreas, and red blood cells. The enzyme exists in both the cytoplasm and mitochondria of cells.