Serum Glutamate Pyruvate Transaminase (Alanine Aminotransferase), also known as SGPT-ALT, is an enzyme that is mostly present in the liver. The minor portion is present in the kidney, spleen, lungs, and skeletal system. Alteration in the value of SGPT-ALT mainly indicates an alteration in the physical properties of the lungs due to hepatitis, cancer, infection, etc. In this post, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of abnormal SGPT in the human body. Besides that, we will also discuss the programming of SGPT reagent in the semi-auto biochemistry analyzer on the basis of the modified IFCC method. Finally, we will discuss the contact details for you to purchase the reagent of Spinreact Company in Kathmandu, Nepal.
SGPT Normal Range
| Without P5P activation | With P5P activation(at 370C) | |
| Men (units per liter) | < 50 | 10 – 50 |
| Women (units per liter) | <35 | 10 – 35 |
The range shown above is the approximate value and can differ from one laboratory to another. It depends upon numerous factors such as the process of measurement, geographical location, habitat, age, sex, etc. However, if the value of SGPT of a person goes out of the given range, then it is better for him/her to consult the doctor.
Causes of Higher Level of SGPT
As stated in the second paragraph, SGPT is mainly found in the liver. But when there is an issue of liver-related diseases, the enzyme leaks into the bloodstream. Thus, there will be an overall increase in the value of SGPT in the bloodstream.
So, we can conclude that anything that affects the functioning of the liver is the cause of high SGPT in the blood. Some of the causes of the high enzyme level in the blood are as follows.
- Alcoholism
- Obesity
- Cirrhosis
- Viral Infection such as Hepatitis (A, B, and C)
- Genetic liver diseases such as Wilson’s disease, Hemochromatosis, Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, etc.
- Autoimmune liver diseases such as Primary biliary cholangitis, Primary sclerosing cholangitis, etc.
Symptoms of High SGPT Level
The symptoms of the high level of SGPT in the blood may include:-
- Weakness and Fatigue
- Nausea and Vomiting
- Jaundice
- Swelling of the legs and ankles
- Loss of appetite
If you are facing these kinds of problems, then you need to consult the doctors.
IFCC method for SGPT Measurement
1. Principle Reaction
- Without Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P) Activation
ALT enzyme converts the 2-oxoglutarate, and L-amine to L-glutamate and pyruvate. The pyruvate reacts with NADH in the presence of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) to form NAD. The rate of degradation of NADH to NAD causes a decrease in the absorbance of the light. This is proportional to the activity of the SGPT-ALT enzyme.
- With Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P) Activation
The purpose of pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P) is to stabilize and maximize the enzymatic activity of transaminase. Similarly, the addition of alpha-ketoglutarate causes pyridoxal-5-phosphate to liberate yet again. This liberated pyridoxal phosphate again acts with the transaminase enzyme. Thus, the process further helps to stabilize the enzyme. The increase in pyruvate is determined by the help of lactate dehydrogenase.
2. Sample Preparation
The table shown below is the programming of SGPT reagent for Tulip, Accurex, Diasys, and Analyticon companies. So, if you have a reagent of any other company then there can be a minor variation in the procedure.
First of all, make a working solution out of the given two reagents. The ratio of their composition will be given in the literature. But, if you have only one reagent besides the calibrator, then that will act as a working solution.
Now, mix the sample volume with the required volume of the working solution. Then feed the solution in a semi-auto biochemistry analyzer.
If the concentration of SGPT in the sample is very high (out of range/ non-linear curve) then dilute the solution with 0.9% NaCl or distilled water at the ratio of 1:y. Finally, when you get the result, multiply it with the dilution factor (1+ y).
Always remember that the total volume of sample and working solution should be more than the sipping volume set in the instrument. Else, the machine will suck up air and will give you the fault reading.
3. Programming for SGPT in a Semi-auto Biochemistry Analyzer (Modified IFCC method)
4. Handling of SGPT Reagents
- Wear an apron and surgical gloves before carrying out the measurement.
- Look for the expiry date of the reagents during purchase and measurement time. Suppliers tend to give you reagent kits with a low expiry interval.
- Once you open the reagent bottles, the lifespan will decrease. So, look in your reagent kit literature for that.
- Bring the reagents and samples to room temperature before you can carry out any measurement.
- Always store reagents in the refrigerator when not in use.
