DB#6 Biomolecules and the Human Body Tests for liver function are essential for evaluating the liver's health, and elevated liver enzyme levels might point to several underlying problems. Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is one such liver enzyme that is of great importance. Since the liver is the primary location of ALT, elevated blood levels of the protein may indicate inflammation or damage to the liver. Various underlying factors can cause elevated ALT levels. One frequent offender is nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This disorder develops when the liver becomes overfed with fat, which damages the liver's cells and causes inflammation. Additional causes include alcohol-related liver illness, certain medicines, and viral hepatitis (e.g., hepatitis B or C). Comprehending the fundamental reasons necessitates considering the liver's function in nutrition metabolism and body detoxification. NAFLD can be caused in part by obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. Viral hepatitis directly affects the liver cells, causing inflammation and increased levels of enzymes. It is important to remember that although increased liver enzymes may indicate an issue, more research is required to identify the exact cause. To identify the underlying problem, diagnostic techniques such as imaging investigations and further blood tests may be used. In conclusion, high ALT readings on a liver function test may indicate several liver-related problems, such as viral infections or metabolic disorders. Effective management and treatment of many disorders depend on promptly identifying and addressing the underlying cause. Question What molecular interactions do liver enzymes, including those involved in detoxification, have with toxins, and how does this process affect the overall liver function? References LEE, Tae Hoon; KIM, W. Ray; POTERUCHA, John J. Evaluation of elevated liver enzymes. Clinics in liver disease, 2012, vol. 16, no 2, p. 183-198. ND, Asia Muhammad. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, an overview. Integrative Medicine: A Clinician's Journal, 2019, vol. 18, no 2, p. 42.
