acinetobacter glutaminase-asparaginase

Acinetobacter glutaminase-asparaginase is a **bacterial enzyme** preparation derived from *Acinetobacter* species, characterized by both L-asparaginase and significant L-glutaminase activity. Its primary **mechanism of action** includes depletion of the amino acids **L-asparagine** and **L-glutamine** from plasma, targeting cancers (particularly leukemias) that are reliant on these amino acids for survival and proliferation. A succinylated and purified formulation, often called **SAGA** (succinylated Acinetobacter glutaminase-asparaginase), was studied for anti-tumor activity and found to have broader anticancer activity compared to standard *Escherichia coli* L-asparaginase. SAGA demonstrated ability to induce depletion of blood glutamine and asparagine levels, but with higher neurotoxicity and related side effects (e.g., central nervous system depression, coma, respiratory alkalosis, hyperglycemia, nausea, vomiting). It has been tested in both solid tumors and leukemia in adults. Phase I studies demonstrated some transient anti-tumor effects but significant toxicity, prompting further trials primarily in leukemic indications[1].

Other names

SAGAsuccinylated acinetobacter glutaminase-asparaginase