GOT1 is involved in the transamination reaction, where it catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from glutamate to oxaloacetate, forming aspartate and alpha-ketoglutarate. This reaction is essential for the urea cycle and the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, which are critical for energy production and detoxification of ammonia in the body .
GOT1 plays a significant role in the metabolism of amino acids and the regulation of cellular energy. It is particularly important in the biosynthesis of L-glutamate from L-aspartate or L-cysteine, which is a major excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. Additionally, GOT1 acts as a scavenger of glutamate in brain neuroprotection .
Human recombinant GOT1 is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the human GOT1 gene into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or yeast, to produce the enzyme in large quantities. This recombinant enzyme is used in various research and clinical applications, including the study of amino acid metabolism and the development of diagnostic assays .