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Updated: Aug 18, 2026
DNA Methylation: Bisulphite Modification and Analysis
Published on: October 21, 2011
Increasing alkaline DNase activity with substrate specificity for denaturated DNA after high dose methotrexate
1Department of Physiological Chemistry, University of Mainz, Fed. Rep. of Germany.
Abstract:
After high dose methotrexate (CAS 59-05-2) therapy of children with non-metastatic osteosarcoma the activity of an alkaline DNase with substrate specificity for denaturated DNA increases in lymphocytes and PHA-stimulated lymphocytes. The DNase activity is probably involved in the process of DNA repair. The enzyme has an isoelectric point of pI 5.9, the pH optimum is 8.5, and Mg++ is necessary for activation. Two weeks after the end of the therapy the DNase activity is comparable to the activity of controls. The determination of the alkaline DNase activity can represent a parameter to control side effects of a cytostatic therapy. It is an indirect way to demonstrate therapy induced DNA damage.
