Liver Function Tests

Liver is the main metabolic organ responsible for detoxification of xenobiotics in mammals. Evaluating the liver function and the impact of different treatments and compounds on the liver health is a corner stone in scientific research.

Available tests

1- SGPT (ALT)

Serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), also called alanine aminotransferase (ALT), is an enzyme that is normally present in liver and heart cells. SGPT is released into blood when the liver or heart is damaged. The blood SGPT levels are thus elevated with liver damage (for example, from viral hepatitis) or with an insult to the heart (for example, from a heart attack). Some medications can also raise SGPT levels.

2- SGOT (AST)

Serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), also called aspartate aminotransferase (AST), is an enzyme that is normally present in liver and heart cells. SGOT is released into blood when the liver or heart is damaged. The blood SGOT levels are thus elevated with liver damage (for example, from viral hepatitis) or with an insult to the heart (for example, from a heart attack). Some medications can also raise SGOT levels.

3- Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP)

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in several tissues throughout the body. The highest concentrations of ALP are present in the cells that comprise bone and the liver. Elevated levels of ALP in the blood are most commonly caused by liver disease or bone disorders

4- Total Bilirubin

Bilirubin is the normal by-product of the breakdown of hemoglobin. Bilirubin circulates in the blood bound to albumin and is taken up by hepatocytes in the liver. Within hepatocytes, bilirubin is conjugated with glucuronic acid. Conjugated (direct) bilirubin is secreted into bile

Total bilirubin levels are therefore indicative of both the destruction of red blood cells and the proper functioning of the liver, gall bladder, and bile ducts.

5- Total Protein

Proteins are important building blocks of all cells and tissues. They are important for body growth, development, and health. They form the structural part of most organs and make up enzymes and hormones that regulate body functions.

This test measures the amount of protein in the blood. Two classes of proteins are found in the blood, albumin and globulin. Albumin is made by the liver and makes up about 60% of the total protein. Albumin maintains the osmotic pressure of blood. Play important roles in transporting; hormones, vitamins, drugs, and important minerals like calcium. Globulins make up the remaining 40% of proteins in the blood. The globulins are a varied group of proteins, some produced by the liver and some by the immune system. They help fight infection and transport nutrients.