Glutamic-Pyruvate Transaminase (GPT), also known as Alanine Aminotransferase (ALT), is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in amino acid metabolism. It catalyzes the reversible transamination between L-alanine and alpha-ketoglutarate to produce L-glutamate and pyruvate . This enzyme is significant in the intermediary metabolism of glucose and amino acids, making it essential for various physiological processes .
GPT belongs to the class-I pyridoxal-phosphate-dependent aminotransferase family and has two distinct molecular and genetic forms: one cytoplasmic (GPT1) and one mitochondrial (GPT2) . The enzyme’s activity is dependent on the presence of pyridoxal phosphate, a derivative of vitamin B6, which acts as a coenzyme in the transamination process .
Human recombinant GPT is produced using advanced biotechnological methods. The gene encoding GPT is cloned into an expression vector, which is then introduced into a suitable host cell, such as E. coli or mammalian cells. The host cells are cultured under optimal conditions to express the recombinant protein, which is subsequently purified using various chromatographic techniques .
Recombinant GPT is widely used in research and clinical diagnostics. It serves as a biomarker for liver function tests, as elevated levels of GPT in the serum indicate liver damage or disease . Additionally, it is used in studies related to amino acid metabolism, drug development, and the investigation of metabolic disorders .