Which liver enzyme is more specific to liver function?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is considered the most specific liver enzyme among the choices provided because it is primarily found in the liver tissue. Elevated levels of ALT in the bloodstream are typically indicative of liver injury or damage, as this enzyme is released into the bloodstream when liver cells are compromised.

While aspartate aminotransferase (AST) can also indicate liver damage, it is not liver-specific because it is present in other tissues, including the heart and skeletal muscle. As a result, elevated AST levels can be associated with conditions affecting these areas as well.

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) are enzymes that can also signal liver problems, but they are found both in the liver and other tissues (such as bone for ALP). Therefore, while they can be useful in conjunction with other tests, they are less specific to liver function compared to ALT.

Thus, when assessing liver function specifically, ALT serves as a more reliable marker.