What is enzyme testing and why is it important?

What is enzyme testing and why is it important?

Enzyme testing involves measuring the activity of enzymes in biological samples. It's crucial for diagnosing diseases, monitoring health, and researching metabolic processes.

How is enzyme testing performed?

Enzyme testing is typically performed using blood, urine, or tissue samples. The samples are analyzed in a lab to measure enzyme levels and activity.

What are some common enzymes tested in medical diagnostics?

Common enzymes include alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), which help assess liver function.

Can enzyme testing be used for anything other than medical purposes?

Yes, enzyme testing is also used in food industry quality control, environmental monitoring, and research to study metabolic pathways.

What are the limitations of enzyme testing?

Limitations include potential false positives/negatives, variability in enzyme levels due to factors like age or diet, and the need for specialized equipment.