Which enzyme is indicated by the abbreviation GGT and is associated with prolonged drinking?

The enzyme indicated by the abbreviation GGT is gamma-glutamyltransferase. This enzyme plays a significant role in the metabolism of glutathione and the transfer of amino acids across cell membranes. Its clinical relevance, particularly in the context of alcohol consumption, stems from its elevation in the blood as a result of liver stress or damage, which often occurs with prolonged and excessive drinking.

When a person engages in heavy drinking, liver cells can become damaged and where GGT levels can be significantly increased. This makes GGT a useful biomarker for assessing alcohol-related liver disease and monitoring abstinence from alcohol, as elevated levels can persist even after a person stops drinking. Other enzymes related to liver function, like ALT and AST, may also be used for evaluating liver health, but GGT specifically has a more direct correlation with alcohol consumption.

In summary, gamma-glutamyltransferase is the specific enzyme associated with the impacts of prolonged drinking, making it the correct answer in this context.