5-fluorouracil + gamma interferon + leucovorin

This is a combination regimen consisting of three agents: - **5-fluorouracil (5-FU):** A pyrimidine analog antimetabolite that inhibits thymidylate synthase, leading to impaired DNA synthesis and cell death. It is widely used as a chemotherapeutic agent in various solid tumors. - **Leucovorin (folinic acid):** A reduced folate that enhances the binding of 5-FU to thymidylate synthase, thereby increasing its cytotoxicity. Leucovorin itself does not have significant anticancer activity but acts as a biochemical modulator. - **Gamma interferon (IFN-gamma):** An immunomodulatory cytokine that can enhance the cytotoxic effects of 5-FU by modulating thymidylate synthase expression and potentially affecting tumor immune response. Preclinical studies show that both leucovorin and gamma interferon can increase the cytotoxicity of 5-FU through different mechanisms at the level of thymidylate synthase[1]. Clinical trials have explored this combination in gastrointestinal cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, with some evidence for increased response rates compared to standard regimens[1][2]. The addition of IFN-gamma may alter pharmacokinetics and toxicity profiles but has been tolerated in clinical settings[2].

Other names

5-FU + IFN-gamma + LVfluorouracil + interferon gamma + leucovorin