From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Asparaginase (EC 3.5.1.1) is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of asparagine to aspartic acid. It is marketed under the brand name Elspar, to treat acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and is also used in some mast cell tumor protocols. [1] Unlike other chemotherapy agents, it can be given as an intramuscular, subcutaneous, or intravenous injection without fear of tissue irritation.
[edit] Mechanism of action
The rationale behind asparaginase is that it takes advantage of the fact that ALL leukemic cells are unable to synthesize the non-essential amino acid asparagine whereas normal cells are able to make their own asparagine.leukemic cells require high amount of 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 such as stroke.
[edit] References
- ^ Appel IM, van Kessel-Bakvis C, Stigter R, Pieters R (2007). "Influence of two different regimens of concomitant treatment with asparaginase and dexamethasone on hemostasis in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia". doi:10.1038/sj.leu.2404793. PMID 17554375.
[edit] External links
- MeSH Asparaginase
- [1] THE PET PHARMACY By Wendy C. Brooks, DVM, DipABVP; Educational Director, VeterinaryPartner.com
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Chemotherapeutic agents/Antineoplastic agents (L01) |
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| Alkylating and alkylating-like agents |
Nitrogen mustards: ( Chlorambucil, Chlormethine, Cyclophosphamide, Ifosfamide, Melphalan, Bendamustine, Uramustine)
Nitrosoureas:(Carmustine, Fotemustine, Lomustine, Streptozocin)
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Alkyl sulfonates:(Busulfan, Treosulfan)
Hydrazines:(Procarbazine, Dacarbazine, Temozolomide)
Aziridines:( ThioTEPA)
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Purine: (Cladribine, Clofarabine, Fludarabine, Mercaptopurine, Pentostatin, Thioguanine)
Pyrimidine: ( Cytarabine, Decitabine, Fluorouracil/ Capecitabine, Floxuridine, Gemcitabine)
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