Transamination and pyridoxal phosphate
ALT and AST transfer amino groups between amino acids and α-keto acids. Which cofactor do they need?
Answer D: explanation for every choice
A
Thiamine pyrophosphate is needed for pyruvate dehydrogenase, α-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase, and transketolase.
B
Biotin is needed for carboxylases such as pyruvate carboxylase.
C
Tetrahydrofolate carries one-carbon units.
D
Correct. Pyridoxal phosphate carries the amino group during transamination.
TakeawayTransamination needs pyridoxal phosphate (B6).
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID bb122.