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Glutamate Dehydrogenase (GLDH) Unit Converter
Glutamate Dehydrogenase (GLDH) is a mitochondrial enzyme found at high concentrations primarily in the liver (centrilobular hepatocytes) and kidney. It catalyzes the reversible oxidative deamination of glutamate, linking the metabolism of amino acids to the urea cycle.[Image of urea cycle]
Clinically, GLDH is considered a highly specific marker for hepatocyte necrosis (severe liver cell death). Unlike ALT and AST (which are cytosolic and leak out easily), GLDH is confined to the mitochondria and is released only when the cell membrane is severely damaged, typically due to ischemic (low oxygen) or toxic liver injury. It is therefore used to differentiate between inflammatory and necrotic liver processes. Results are reported in units of activity (U/L or µkat/L).
SI Units
RecommendedMicrokatals and Nanokatals per liter.
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Reference Range: GLDH is normally found in very low quantities in the serum, typically < 7 U/L.
If ALT/AST are high but GLDH is low, it suggests a transient or mild inflammatory process. If ALT/AST are high and GLDH is also significantly high, it indicates widespread hepatocyte necrosis (severe, irreversible injury) often due to drug toxicity or ischemia. The conversion factor is constant: 1 U/L ≈ 0.0167 µkat/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., U/L). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other activity units (like µkat/L) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. µkat/L is the standard ISO unit for enzyme activity.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Yes. U/L and IU/L (International Units per Liter) are interchangeable.
GLDH is located deep within the cell (mitochondria), while ALT is in the cytosol. This means GLDH indicates severe cellular damage (necrosis), whereas ALT indicates general cell injury or inflammation.