AADAT (aminoadipate aminotransferase) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in lysine degradation in the body. Primarily located in the mitochondria, it is involved in the alpha-aminoadipic semialdehyde (α-AASA) pathway, converting α-AASA to alpha-aminoadipate (AAA) — an essential step in lysine breakdown. This process helps regulate lysine levels and generates intermediates used in other metabolic pathways.