docetaxel + cisplatin + imatinib

This is an investigational combination therapy consisting of the taxane docetaxel, the platinum-based agent cisplatin, and the tyrosine kinase inhibitor imatinib mesylate (STI571). Developed and evaluated by Duke University, this regimen is intended for the treatment of advanced or recurrent non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). The rationale behind adding imatinib to standard chemotherapy is its ability to inhibit platelet-derived growth factor receptor beta (PDGFR-β) signaling in the tumor stroma. This inhibition reduces tumor interstitial fluid pressure, which is often elevated in solid tumors and acts as a barrier to the efficient delivery of chemotherapy. By lowering this pressure, imatinib is hypothesized to enhance the uptake and efficacy of docetaxel and cisplatin. The combination was evaluated in a Phase 1/2 clinical trial specifically for patients whose tumors expressed phosphorylated PDGFR-β.

Brand names

Gleevec

Other names

docetaxel + cisplatin + STI571docetaxel + cisplatin + imatinib mesylate