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5-fluorouracil,leucovorin,panitumumab

Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano · Phase 2 active Small molecule

This combination uses 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin as chemotherapy agents to inhibit thymidylate synthase and enhance fluorouracil cytotoxicity, while panitumumab blocks EGFR signaling to prevent tumor cell growth and survival.

This combination uses 5-fluorouracil and leucovorin as chemotherapy agents to inhibit thymidylate synthase and enhance fluorouracil cytotoxicity, while panitumumab blocks EGFR signaling to prevent tumor cell growth and survival. Used for Metastatic colorectal cancer (Phase 2 investigation).

At a glance

Generic name5-fluorouracil,leucovorin,panitumumab
SponsorFondazione IRCCS Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, Milano
Drug classChemotherapy combination with EGFR inhibitor
TargetThymidylate synthase (5-FU), EGFR (panitumumab)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaOncology
PhasePhase 2

Mechanism of action

5-fluorouracil (5-FU) is a pyrimidine antimetabolite that inhibits thymidylate synthase, disrupting DNA synthesis. Leucovorin (folinic acid) enhances 5-FU efficacy by stabilizing the 5-FU–thymidylate synthase complex. Panitumumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), blocking ligand-induced receptor activation and downstream proliferation signaling. Together, these agents provide dual mechanisms targeting DNA synthesis and growth factor signaling in colorectal cancer cells.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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