Asparaginase
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Image:Asparaginase.png | |
Asparaginase
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Systematic (IUPAC) name | |
E. coli L-asparagine amidohydrolase | |
Identifiers | |
CAS number | |
ATC code | L01 |
PubChem | ? |
DrugBank | |
Chemical data | |
Formula | C1377H2208N382O442S17 |
Mol. mass | 31731.9 g/mol |
Pharmacokinetic data | |
Bioavailability | ? |
Metabolism | ? |
Half life | 8-30 hrs |
Excretion | ? |
Therapeutic considerations | |
Pregnancy cat. |
? |
Legal status | |
Routes | ? |
Asparaginase (EC 3.5.1.1) is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of asparagine to aspartic acid. It is also marketed under the brand name Elspar® to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It can be given intramuscularly or intravenously.
[edit] Mechanism of action
The rationale behind asparaginase is that it takes advantage of the fact that ALL cells are unable to synthesize the non-essential amino acid asparagine whereas normal cells are able to make their own asparagine. These leukemic cells depend on circulating asparagine. Asparaginase however catalyzes the conversion of L-asparagine to aspartic acid and ammonia. This deprives the leukemic cell of circulating asparagine.
[edit] Side effects
The main side effect is an allergic or hypersensitivity reaction. Asparaginase has also been associated with pancreatitis. Additionally, it can also be associated with a coagulopathy as it decreases protein synthesis, including synthesis of coagulation factors and anticoagulant factor, leading to bleeding or thrombotic events.