Enzyme used in Leukemia-
**Core Concept**
Asparaginase is an enzyme used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It hydrolyzes the amino acid asparagine, leading to a depletion of asparagine in the body. This depletion is particularly toxic to leukemia cells, which are unable to synthesize asparagine due to a deficiency in the enzyme asparagine synthetase.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is asparaginase, which is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydrolysis of asparagine to aspartic acid and ammonia. Leukemia cells, especially those of ALL and AML, are unable to synthesize asparagine due to a deficiency in the enzyme asparagine synthetase. As a result, they are unable to synthesize asparagine and rely on the exogenous supply of asparagine. Depletion of asparagine by asparaginase leads to a metabolic crisis in these cells, ultimately causing cell death. Asparaginase is typically administered intravenously or intramuscularly and is often used in combination with other chemotherapy agents.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** (Not applicable, as the question is incomplete)
**Option B:** (Not applicable, as the question is incomplete)
**Option C:** (Not applicable, as the question is incomplete)
**Option D:** (Not applicable, as the question is incomplete)
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Asparaginase is a key component of chemotherapy regimens for ALL and AML. It is particularly useful in pediatric patients, where it has been shown to improve outcomes and reduce relapse rates. However, asparaginase can cause a range of adverse effects, including pancreatitis, thrombosis, and hypersensitivity reactions.
**Correct Answer: A. Asparaginase**