Metabolomics for liver function

Hippuric Acid

Hippuric acid is found in urine as a metabolite of aromatic compounds from food components or as a metabolite of therapeutic compounds such as aspirin. The normal range for hippuric acid is 0.44 ± 0.20 g/L. High levels of hippuric acid are an indication of high phase I and low phase II liver activity.

 

Pyroglutamic Acid

Pyroglutamic acid is an intermediate substrate that plays a role in glutathione synthesis. Normal levels of pyroglutamic acid are between 28 and 58 ug/mg.

High levels of pyroglutamic acid indicate that your body is using too much glutathione and losing amino acids, which can affect your liver. Low levels of pyroglutamic acid can also mean that you have a glutathione deficiency.

 

2-Hydroxybutyric Acid

2-Hydroxybutyric acid is a form of hydroxybutyric acid that can indicate oxidative stress. It is often found in the urine of people with lactic acidosis and ketoacidosis.

Elevated levels of 2-hydroxybutyric acid can indicate glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Normal levels are between 0.03 and 1.8 mmol/mol creatinine.

 

2-Hydroxyhippuric Acid

This is a conjugate of the amino acids glycine and hydroxybenzoic acid (salicylic acid). Taking aspirin (salicylates) or the growth of salicylate-producing gastrointestinal bacteria can raise levels. It has also been shown to increase after taking the artificial sweetener aspartame.

If it is high, it is a sign of poor phase II liver detoxification, and you will want to increase glycine or reduce salicylates and benzoates.

 

Orotic Acid

Orotic acid levels are used to test for hyperammonemia and hereditary orotic aciduria. Normal orotic acid levels are between 0.2 and 1.5 mmol/mol creatinine. High orotic acid levels may indicate liver problems or fatty liver disease.