Answer 51 = [3]
Drug = L-Asparginase
Source = Purified from Escherichia coli and/or Erwinia chrysanthemi.
Mechanism = Tumor cells lack asparagine synthetase and thus require exogenous sources of L-Asparagine. L-Asparaginase hydrolyzes circulating L-Asparagine to aspartic acidand ammonia. Depletion of the essential amino acid L-Asparagine results in rapid inhibition of protein synthesis. Cytotoxicity of drug correlates well with inhibition of protein synthesis.
Adverse reactions:-
Hypersensitivity reaction.
Mild elevation in LFTs/Hepatitis.
Increased risk of both bleeding and clotting (Hypercoagulability).
Pancreatitis develops in up to 10% of patients.
Severe neurotoxicity resembles ammonia toxicity (rare) – Not Neuritis
NOTE>>> Contraindicated in patients with either active pancreatitis or a history of pancreatitis. If pancreatitis develops while on therapy, L-Asparaginase should be stopped immediately.
Answer 52 = [3] Both (see above for L-Asp)
Corticosteroids also induce hypercoagulable state.