Which serum liver function test markers are associated with a decrease following Opuntia fruit extract consumption?

ALT and AST

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) are critical enzymes found primarily within liver cells, and their presence in elevated levels in the serum (blood) is a widely accepted indicator of potential liver inflammation or injury, as they leak out when cell integrity is compromised. Research summarizing the effects of certain plant extracts, specifically derived from prickly pear fruit, suggests a beneficial association with lowering the circulating levels of both ALT and AST in individuals facing various metabolic challenges. This observed reduction in these injury markers implies that the cactus derivatives are not causing stress, but rather seem to be exerting a supportive effect, potentially by modulating lipid metabolism and reducing the burden placed upon the liver tissue, thereby sparing it from excessive damage or fat deposition.