Non essential amino acid – aspartate is synthesized by which reaction in the body?
**Core Concept**
Aspartate, a non-essential amino acid, is synthesized in the body through a specific biochemical reaction involving the enzyme aspartate transaminase. This reaction is crucial for maintaining the levels of aspartate in the body, which plays a significant role in various physiological processes, including the synthesis of nucleotides and the regulation of acid-base balance.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
Aspartate is synthesized from oxaloacetate, a key intermediate in the citric acid cycle, through the action of aspartate transaminase (AST). This enzyme catalyzes the transfer of an amino group from glutamate to oxaloacetate, resulting in the formation of aspartate and alpha-ketoglutarate. This reaction is reversible and plays a critical role in the regulation of amino acid metabolism and the citric acid cycle.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not specify the correct enzyme involved in aspartate synthesis.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because it does not describe the correct biochemical reaction involved in aspartate synthesis.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because it does not accurately describe the role of aspartate transaminase in aspartate synthesis.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Aspartate transaminase (AST) is also known as serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and is often used as a marker of liver damage. Elevated levels of AST can indicate liver injury or disease, making it an important diagnostic tool in clinical practice.
**Correct Answer: C. The reaction is catalyzed by aspartate transaminase (AST) which transfers an amino group from glutamate to oxaloacetate.**