The term "Mitochondrial Aspartate Aminotransferase" refers to an enzyme found in cells' mitochondria. Its spelling may seem complex, but the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) can help break it down. "Mitochondrial" is pronounced /ˌmaɪ.təʊˈkɒn.dri.əl/, "Aspartate" is /əˈspɑː.teɪt/, and "Aminotransferase" is /ə.miː.nəʊ.trænsˈfɜː.reɪz/. Understanding the pronunciation of each section can help users understand and communicate the term more effectively, highlighting the importance of using the IPA in scientific fields.
Mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase (mAspAT) is an enzyme found in the mitochondria of cells that plays a crucial role in cellular metabolism. It is also known as mitochondrial aspartate aminotransferase 2 (mAST2) or glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase 2 (GOT2).
mAspAT is involved in the conversion of aspartate and α-ketoglutarate to glutamate and oxaloacetate in a reversible reaction. This process is part of a larger pathway known as the citric acid cycle (also called the TCA or Krebs cycle). In this cycle, aspartate is converted to oxaloacetate, which can then be used for gluconeogenesis or the production of glucose.
The enzyme mAspAT is essential for the biosynthesis of amino acids like glutamate, asparagine, and alanine. It is also involved in the regulation of cellular nitrogen balance. By transferring amino groups between aspartate and α-ketoglutarate, mAspAT helps to maintain the equilibrium between these amino acids and ensure their proper utilization for various cellular processes.
mAspAT has been identified in various tissues, including liver, kidney, heart, and skeletal muscles. It is crucial for maintaining the energy balance in cells, as it connects the TCA cycle with the amino acid metabolism pathways. Mutations or dysregulation of mAspAT can lead to metabolic disorders or diseases, such as mitochondrial dysfunction, cardiovascular diseases, or neurological disorders. Understanding the function and regulation of mAspAT is essential for unraveling the intricate metabolic network within mitochondria and its implications in overall cellular health and disease.