Summary: Aspartate transaminase (AST) also known as aspartate aminotransferase or (sGOT) is a metabolic enzyme expressed primarily in the liver. Elevation of AST levels is an indication of liver damage and has been associated with liver injury. AST levels are monitored routinely in patients with liver diseases. AST is also a very useful tool for preclinical investigation of experimental drug formulations and AST levels are commonly used to monitor and attenuate the hepatotoxic effects of experimental drugs in rodents.