Description
Asparaginase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of asparagine to aspartate and ammonia, depleting asparagine levels and inhibiting cell growth; it is commonly used as an anticancer chemotherapeutic and anti-angiogenic compound in the treatment of leukemia. Asparaginase inhibits proliferation of acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) cells, inducing apoptosis mediated by apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF). Asparaginase decreases β1 integrin binding and phosphorylation of FAK, inducing autophagy; this decreases microvascular endothelial cell tube formation and inhibits invasion of ovarian cancer cells. In clinical settings, asparaginase may induce thrombotic effect, as administration often results in depletion of anti-thrombin, and it may also increase serum triglycerides.