Genetic factors affecting liver damage from asparaginase in leukemia patients

Pharmacogenomics of Age-Specific, Asparaginase-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Patients With Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia

Observational University of Southern California · NCT03568266

This study is testing how certain genes might affect the risk of liver damage from asparaginase in people newly diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment500 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Southern California Academic / other
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, California)
Trial IDNCT03568266 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot trial investigates how genetic information may influence the risk of liver damage caused by asparaginase in patients newly diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The study focuses on the SOD2 rs4880 genotype and aims to identify novel single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with hepatotoxicity. Participants will provide saliva samples for genetic testing, which will help determine their tolerance to asparaginase treatment. The study includes both prospective and retrospective participants, with data collected during regular clinical visits.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are newly diagnosed patients with acute lymphoblastic leukemia who are receiving asparaginase as part of their treatment.

Not a fit: Patients who are unable to provide informed consent or have prior treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could help identify patients at risk for liver damage from asparaginase, allowing for personalized treatment plans.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have explored genetic factors in drug-induced toxicity, suggesting potential for success in this area, though this specific approach may be novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Newly diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) - no prior treatment for ALL
* Receiving asparaginase as part of the primary treatment regimen
* Ability to understand and the willingness to sign a written informed consent
* For retrospective recruitment, those who have received asparaginase between 2012 and 2017; and are current patients of University of Southern California (USC)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients who are unable to give informed consent

Where this trial is running

Los Angeles, California

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.