Asparaginase

Asparaginase is an enzyme used in the treatment of ALL. Asparaginase catalyzes the conversion of asparagine to aspartic acid and ammonia, which depletes the supply of asparagine.  Growing cells rely on asparagine for growth, so growth is limited.  Ammonia toxicity, seizures, and pancreatitis are possible side effects.

Class Drugs

• Asparaginase

Class Mechanism of Action

Decreases levels of asparagine, which is an amino acid, by catalyzing the conversion of asparagine to aspartic acid and ammonia.

Cells that rely on supply of asparagine for growth are then unable to produce necessary proteins for proliferation

Class Applications

ALL

Class Adverse Effects

Hypersensitivity

Ammonia toxicity

Seizures

Pancreatitis

Drug Table

Drug Name	Application	Comments	Image
Asparaginase			"Asparagus"