New therapeutic strategies for patients with gastrointestinal malignancies using biochemical modulation of fluorouracil

Article Abstract:

Biochemical modulation of fluorouracil may aid the development of new therapeutic regimens for colorectal cancer. Biochemical modulation uses substances to enhance the activity of therapeutic agents. Fluorouracil is the single most effective agent for the treatment of colorectal cancer. Efforts to biomodulate fluorouracil activity center on improving its ability to inhibit the enzyme thymidylate synthase. Thymidylate synthase acts on a substance that is necessary for DNA synthesis and repair. The biomodulatory modalities, leucovorin and interferon alfa seem to strengthen the DNA-directed cytotoxic mechanisms of fluorouracil. A clinical trial involving colorectal cancer patients reported that treatment with fluorouracil, interferon alfa, and leucovorin slowed the body's ability to remove fluorouracil, which increased cellular exposure to this anti-cancer agent. The patients' response rate was 44%. Researchers are also testing folate-based thymidylate synthase inhibitors that have a different chemical structure than fluorouracil.

Health aspects, Research, Colorectal cancer, Fluorouracil, Adjuvant chemotherapy, Biological response modifiers

---

Continuous ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring in the evaluation of patients with gastroesophageal reflux: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology Assessment (DATTA)

Article Abstract:

Continuous ambulatory esophageal pH monitoring (CAEpHM) appears to be a safe and effective method of diagnosing pathological gastroesophageal reflux in adults. Gastroesophageal reflux occurs when acidic stomach contents are regurgitated into the esophagus. Prolonged reflux can cause esophageal disease. Ninety-three physicians specializing or having interest in this disorder responded to a Diagnostic and Therapeutic Technology Assessment (DATTA) survey, and researchers also reviewed published studies on the subject. The survey mailed to physicians contained questions about the safety and effectiveness of using CAEpHM for patients with symptoms of chronic heartburn, acid reflux, laryngeal lesions, apnea, and chest pain not related to heart problems. CAEpHM was considered an established practice to diagnose patients with chronic heartburn, acid reflux and chest pain. CAEpHM is in the investigational stages for adults with apnea.

Evaluation, Diagnosis, Ambulatory medical care, Ambulatory care, Gastroesophageal reflux, Esophagitis

---

Similar abstracts:

• Abstracts: The unfolding of therapeutic radiology. Comparison of different metronidazole therapeutic regimens for bacterial vaginosis: a meta-analysis
• Abstracts: Urinary tract disorders in patients with chronic granulomatous disease. part 2 Trefoil peptides in the defense of the gastrointestinal tract

This website is not affiliated with document authors or copyright owners. This page is provided for informational purposes only. Unintentional errors are possible.