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Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) also known as serum glutamic oxalacetic transaminase (SGOT) is a tissue enzyme that catalyzes the exchange of amino and keto groups between alpha--amino acids and alpha-keto acids. AST is widely distributed in tissue principally cardiac, hepatic, muscle and kidney. Injury to these tissues results in the release of the AST (SGOT) enzyme to general circulation. Following a myocardial infarction, serum levels of AST (SGOT) are elevated and reach a peak 48 to 60 hours after onset. Hepatobiliary diseases, such as cirrhosis, metastatic carcinoma, and viral hepa
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