What is AST on a blood test?

An aspartate aminotransferase (AST) test measures the amount of this enzyme in the blood. AST is normally found in red blood cells, liver, heart, muscle tissue, pancreas, and kidneys. AST formerly was called serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT). Low levels of AST are normally found in the blood. read more

The AST test is performed on a blood sample. A healthcare provider usually takes the sample from a vein in your arm or hand using a small needle. They collect the blood in a tube and send it to a lab for analysis. read more

The blood test for AST or aspartate transaminase is a test to reveal injury to certain organs, specifically the liver. Aspartate transaminase is an enzyme that is responsible for the creation of glutamate and oxaloacetate. Both of these are inputs that go into a crucial system called the citric acid cycle. read more