What products are formed from the forward reaction of AST?

The correct response highlights that the forward reaction of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) involves the transamination process where aspartate is converted into oxaloacetate. During this reaction, amino groups are transferred from amino acids to α-ketoglutarate, resulting in the formation of glutamate. This enzymatic reaction is a crucial component of amino acid metabolism and the urea cycle, allowing organisms to interconvert amino acids and metabolites to facilitate energy production and nitrogen balance.

Oxaloacetate, a key intermediate in the Krebs cycle, is produced alongside glutamate, which serves as an important amino acid in various biosynthetic pathways. Thus, recognizing that the direct products of the forward reaction of AST are oxaloacetate and glutamate provides essential insight into both the enzymatic function of AST and the metabolic pathways it influences.

The other options do not accurately reflect the products generated during the AST catalyzed reaction, either due to incorrect stoichiometry or misidentifying the reactants and products listed.