What is the normal range for transaminase levels?

Jan 24, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Gao Jun

Introduction

Under normal circumstances, transaminases mainly include alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The normal range for alanine aminotransferase is generally 5-40 U/L for males and 5-35 U/L for females. The normal range for aspartate aminotransferase is typically 8-40 U/L. These values may vary depending on the specific laboratory and measurement methods. If transaminase levels exceed the normal range, further testing is required.

Under normal circumstances, transaminases mainly include alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The normal range for ALT is generally 0-40 U/L, while the normal range for AST is typically 0-45 U/L, although specific values may vary depending on the laboratory and measurement methods used. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Transaminases are a group of enzymes present within cells, primarily involved in amino acid metabolism and protein synthesis. Common transaminases include alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). The normal range for ALT is 0-40 U/L. ALT is mainly found in the cytoplasm of liver cells, and when hepatocytes are damaged—such as by viral infection, drug-induced injury, or alcohol exposure—ALT is released into the bloodstream, causing an increase in blood ALT levels. The normal range for AST is typically 0-45 U/L. AST is mainly distributed in tissues such as the myocardium, liver, skeletal muscles, and kidneys. In liver diseases, when liver cells are damaged—especially when mitochondria are affected—AST levels rise. AST plays an important reference role in the diagnosis of various diseases, including myocardial infarction and liver disorders.

It should be noted that different testing methods and instruments may lead to slight variations in reference ranges. Therefore, when determining whether transaminase levels are normal, it is necessary to refer to the reference range provided by the hospital.

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What are the effects of excessively high transaminase levels?

Elevated transaminase levels can have multiple effects on the body, including impaired liver function, reduced hepatic metabolic capacity, increased risk of cardiac damage, coagulation disorders, and decreased immune function. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and reduced intake of high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt foods, to help preserve normal liver metabolic function.

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Is normal transaminase equivalent to normal liver function?

Under normal circumstances, normal transaminase levels do not necessarily indicate normal liver function. Some liver diseases may not lead to a significant increase in transaminase levels in the early stages, such as fatty liver disease and autoimmune liver disease. Therefore, even with normal transaminase levels, the possibility of liver disease cannot be completely ruled out. If liver problems are suspected, timely medical consultation is recommended, along with further examinations and treatment as directed by a physician.

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Is alanine aminotransferase a transaminase?

Under normal circumstances, alanine aminotransferase is one type of transaminase. When undergoing an alanine aminotransferase test, it is important to avoid strenuous exercise, alcohol consumption, and staying up late before the test, as these factors may affect the accuracy of the test results. In daily life, maintaining a regular sleep schedule and a balanced diet can help support normal liver function and keep alanine aminotransferase levels within the normal range.