Mechanistic studies of PEG-asparaginase-induced liver injury and hepatic steatosis in mice

PEGylated-l-asparaginase (PEG-ASNase) is a chemotherapeutic agent used to treat pediatric acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Its use is avoided in adults due to its high risk of liver injury including hepatic steatosis, with obesity and older age considered risk factors of the injury. Our study aims to elucidate the mechanism of PEG-ASNase-induced liver injury. Mice received 1500 U/kg of PEG-ASNase and were sacrificed 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after drug administration. Liver triglycerides were quantified, and plasma bilirubin, ALT, AST, and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured. The mRNA and protein levels of genes involved in hepatic fatty acid synthesis,