Enzyme used in Leukemia –
**Core Concept**
The management of leukemia involves the use of various enzymes that are crucial for the diagnosis and treatment of this condition. One such enzyme plays a pivotal role in the treatment of leukemia by inducing differentiation of leukemic cells.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The enzyme asparaginase is used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). It works by depleting the amino acid asparagine, which is essential for the growth and survival of leukemic cells. Asparaginase is a recombinant form of the enzyme and is used in combination with other chemotherapy drugs to treat ALL. The mechanism of action of asparaginase involves the inhibition of asparagine synthetase, an enzyme that is responsible for producing asparagine in the body. By depleting asparagine, asparaginase starves the leukemic cells of this essential nutrient, leading to their death.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is incorrect because it does not mention the specific enzyme used in the treatment of leukemia.
* **Option B:** This option is incorrect because it is not a commonly used enzyme in the treatment of leukemia.
* **Option C:** This option is incorrect because it is not the correct enzyme used in the treatment of leukemia.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Asparaginase is a high-risk medication that can cause severe hypersensitivity reactions, pancreatitis, and hepatotoxicity. Regular monitoring of liver function tests and complete blood counts is essential when administering asparaginase to patients with leukemia.
**Correct Answer:** D. Asparaginase.