E. coli asparaginase + PEG-L-asparaginase

This drug is a combination of two forms of asparaginase enzymes used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL): native Escherichia coli-derived L-asparaginase and pegylated L-asparaginase (PEG-L-asparaginase, also known as pegaspargase). Both components catalyze the hydrolysis of the amino acid L-asparagine into aspartic acid and ammonia, depleting plasma asparagine levels and leading to leukemic cell death since leukemic cells are unable to synthesize sufficient asparagine for survival[3][6][8]. Native E. coli L-asparaginase is highly immunogenic and has a shorter half-life (~20 hours), while PEG-L-asparaginase is conjugated with polyethylene glycol to reduce immunogenicity and extend its half-life (up to 7 days or more)[1][2][5]. The combination may be used sequentially or in protocols where switching between formulations is required due to hypersensitivity or toxicity profiles[4][9]. Both drugs are primarily indicated for ALL but may have different toxicity profiles; PEG-L-asparaginase tends to cause fewer allergic reactions but can result in prolonged toxicities due to its longer duration of action[5].

Brand names

OncasparElspar

Other names

native E. coli L-asparaginase + pegaspargasenative E. coli L-asparaginase + PEG-L-asparaginase