Not available outside of the UK & Ireland.

Analysis Note

Protein determined by biuret.

Application

Asparaginase from Escherichia coli has been used: to compare the cytotoxic effect of L-asparaginase purified fromStreptomyces brollosaeNEAE-115as a standard in asparaginase assay to quantify asparaginase activities in various eel tissuesto elicit amino acid deprivation

Biochem/physiol Actions

Asparaginase is used in enzymatic assays and to convert asparagine to aspartic acid. Asparaginase is used to reduce the formation of acrylamide in starchy food products. It is also used as a chemotherapy agent for acute lymphoblastic leukemia . Product A3809 is from Escherichia coli and is provided as a lyophilized powder containing sodium chloride.

Asparaginase (ASNase) products are usually obtained fromEscherichia coliandErwinia chrysanthemi. These enzymes can block the synthesis of protein in tumor cells. It shows high activity in the G1phase of the cell cycle. It is capable of causing pancreatitis in leukemia patients.

Asparaginase may cause cell death in leukemic cells by converting the necessary L-asparagine to aspartic acid and ammonia . Asparaginase is allosterically regulated and is crucial for proper cell functioning .

General description

Asparaginase is a bacterial enzyme and also a chemotherapeutic drug.

Packaging

100, 1000 units in serum bottle

Physical form

Lyophilized powder containing sodium chloride

Preparation Note

Chromatographically purified

Unit Definition

One unit will liberate 1.0 µmole of ammonia from L-asparagine per min at pH 8.6 at 37 °C.