L-ASPARAGINASE AND LEUKEMIA

The literature appearing up to July 1968 on L-Asparaginase is reviewed. It indicates that this enzyme is able to inhibit leukaemias and lymphosarcomatoses, both in animals and in humans with comparatively few side effects. In animal experiments remissions are obtained. On account of lack of adequate quantities of enzyme, clinical experiments to-date do not permit a final assessment. There is no doubt however, that remissions will be obtained with many acute lymphatic leukaemias. The enzyme reduces the extracellular asparaginase level. The protein metabolism of L-Asparaginase-resistant strains of tumor is such that these tumours are not dependant upon the addition of exogenous asparagine. Findings to-date indicate that cell strains resistant to L-Asparaginase posess a different metabolic pathway for synthesizing asparagine than those which are L-Asparaginase sensitive. Attention is drawn to the way in which the activity of L-Asparaginase can be influenced experimentally. © 1969 Springer-Verlag.