II. Indications
- Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (FDA approved in adults and children)
III. Mechanism
- Asparaginase is an enzyme extracted from Escherichia coliBacteria
- A similar enzyme is extracted from the BacteriaErwinia carotovora, for use in asparaginase Hypersensitivity
- Another Asparaginase source is the BacteriaErwinia Chrysanthemi
- Asparaginase hydrolyzes L-Asparagine to L-Aspartic Acid and ammonia
- Results in deficiency of the conditional Essential Amino Acid, Asparagine, and inhibiting Protein synthesis
- Susceptible cells (esp. leukemic cells) are arrested in G1 phase of the Cell Cycle, and undergo apoptosis
- Leukemic cells lack the enzyme , preventing Asparaginase replacement
- Normal cells, in contrast, contain adequate Asparagine synthase to replenish Asparagine
IV. Dosing
- See other references for disease specific dosing protocols
V. Safety
- Avoid in Lactation
- Avoid in pregnancy (all trimesters)
- Use reliable Contraception
VI. Resources
- Asparaginase powder for injection (DailyMed)