Why is asparaginase used for treatment of cancer?

All cells need a substance called asparagine to make proteins and create new cells. Asparaginase is an enzyme that breaks down asparagine. Unlike normal cells, ALL cells are unable to make their own asparagine. So asparaginase stops the cancer cells from dividing and growing.

What does the L stand for in L-asparaginase?

Asparaginase hydrolyzes L-asparagine to L-aspartic acid and ammonia in leukemic cells, resulting in the depletion of asparagine, inhibition of protein synthesis, cell cycle arrest in the G1 phase, and apoptosis in susceptible leukemic cell populations.

What is the mechanism of action of asparaginase?

Asparaginase Erwinia chrysanthemi is an asparaginase-specific enzyme derived from Erwinia chrysanthemi used as an anticancer agent. It works by depleting the stores of an important amino acid called asparagine, which is involved in DNA synthesis and cell survival of malignant cells, leading to cell death.

How often is asparaginase given?

Erwinia asparaginase is a valid second- or third-line therapy, depending upon protocols, regulatory factors, and availability. Evidence from published studies suggests that Erwinia asparaginase should be administered at a dose of at least 20,000 IU/m2 3-times weekly, by either the IV or IM route.

How do you produce L-asparaginase?

L-asparaginase is produced from a variety of microbial sources including fungi, yeast, bacteria and actinomycetes by the process of submerged fermentation8. Currently, L-asparaginases derived from two bacterial sources, Erwinia chrysanthemi and E. coli, are in clinical use for the treatment of ALL9.

How do you give L-asparaginase?

Aspariginase is given as an injection into a large muscle (intramuscular or IM). Depending on your dose, the medication may need to be divided into two injections. Also may be given into the vein as an infusion (intravenous or IV). This method has higher risk of allergic reaction so often a test dose is given first.

What are cisplatin tablets used for?

Cisplatin is used to treat various types of cancer. It is a chemotherapy drug that contains platinum. It is used to slow or stop cancer cell growth.

What drug is given with cisplatin?

You will be given extra fluids through the drip before and after the cisplatin. You may also have a drug called mannitol. The fluids and mannitol can help prevent kidney damage.

What type of enzyme is L-asparaginase?

Asparaginase is a bacterial enzyme that reduces the availability of asparagine, an amino acid that is necessary for the growth of some tumor cells.