Method for selective methionine starvation of malignant cells in mammals

摘要

An improved method for chemotherapy of mammalian malignant cells which have an absolute requirement for methionine but lack methylthioadenosine phosphorylase (MTAse). The method comprises detection of MTAse negative cells in a mammal, administration of methionine gamma -lyase in sufficient amounts to reduce the volume of MTAse negative cells in the mammal, and co-administration of methylthioadenosine in amounts sufficient to ensure the continued availability of methionine to the mammal's non-malignant cells. Means for detection of MTAse negative cells are provided. Means for production and use of recombinant chemotherapeutic agents are also provided.