docetaxel + floxuridine + leucovorin + oxaliplatin

This combination chemotherapy regimen, developed and studied by the University of Miami, consists of docetaxel, floxuridine (FUdR), leucovorin, and oxaliplatin. It was specifically evaluated in a Phase II clinical trial as a neoadjuvant therapy for patients with previously untreated, resectable stage II or III esophageal adenocarcinoma. Docetaxel, a taxane, works by binding to and stabilizing microtubules, thereby inhibiting cell division. Oxaliplatin is a platinum-based agent that forms DNA adducts and cross-links, leading to DNA damage and apoptosis. Floxuridine is a fluoropyrimidine that inhibits thymidylate synthase, an effect that is enhanced by the addition of leucovorin. The regimen demonstrated significant activity in esophageal adenocarcinoma, allowing for pathologic complete responses and tumor downstaging prior to surgery without the requirement for concurrent radiation therapy.

Brand names

TaxotereEloxatin

Other names

docetaxel-University of Miami-esophageal cancer (adenocarcinoma)FUdR + Oxaliplatin + Docetaxel + LeucovorinUniversity of Miami neoadjuvant regimen