GOT (AST)
Liver enzyme indicating cell damage
Also known as
Definition
GOT (aspartate aminotransferase, AST) is an enzyme found in liver, heart, and muscle cells that is released into the bloodstream upon cell damage. It serves as a marker for hepatocellular injury, muscle trauma, and myocardial infarction. In liver diagnostics, GOT is evaluated alongside GPT; a GOT/GPT ratio above 2 suggests alcoholic hepatopathy.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Unit | U/l (IU/l) |
| Reference Range | Women: < 35 U/l | Men: < 50 U/l |
| Optimal Range (lab2go) | < 25 U/l |
↓ What a low value means
Very low GOT values are rarely clinically significant. A GOT near zero can indicate severe vitamin B6 deficiency (GOT is B6-dependent). Generally, a low GOT value is not a medical problem.
↑ What a high value means
Elevated GOT (> 35–50 U/l) occurs with hepatitis (viral, alcoholic, toxic), fatty liver disease (NAFLD/NASH), cirrhosis, myocardial infarction (myocardial necrosis), rhabdomyolysis, and intense strength training. The GOT/GPT ratio (de Ritis ratio) helps differentiation: ratio > 2 = alcoholic hepatopathy typical; ratio < 1 = viral or metabolic liver damage more likely.
✓ How to optimize this marker
Avoid or substantially reduce alcohol. Weight loss in NAFLD (even 5–10% weight reduction measurably lowers transaminases). Review hepatotoxic medications (high-dose acetaminophen, certain antibiotics, rarely statins). Avoid intense strength training 48 hours before the blood draw (muscle GOT). Repeat measurement after 4–6 weeks without confounders.
When to test
As part of the baseline liver panel alongside GPT and GGT. No fasting required, but avoid intense physical exercise (strength training, marathon) 48 hours before — raises GOT from muscle cells. Repeat at elevated values after 4–6 weeks.
Frequently asked questions
Why is GOT elevated after strength training? +
GOT is found not only in liver cells but also in muscle cells. Intense strength training or muscle damage (DOMS) causes GOT to exit muscles into the blood — a physiological process without disease significance, but one that can confound blood draws taken 48 hours after training.
What does an elevated de Ritis ratio (GOT/GPT > 2) mean? +
A GOT/GPT ratio > 2 is a classic sign of alcoholic liver disease. In viral hepatitis and NAFLD, GPT is often more elevated than GOT, so the ratio is < 1.
From what GOT elevation do I need further diagnostics? +
With GOT > 2–3-fold above the upper reference value (> 70–100 U/l), persistently elevated values over 4–6 weeks, or with concurrent jaundice/symptoms, further liver diagnostics (ultrasound, viral serology, ferritin, autoantibodies) should be performed.
Sources
Last Reviewed: May 28, 2026 · sina
This information is for orientation only and does not replace medical advice. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, method and country.