Abstract: Objective To evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with potentially resectable gastric cancer. Methods A total of 31 patients with potentially advanced gastric cancer were given 2-4 cycles of modified DCF combination therapy involving tegafur，cisplatinum，and docetaxel every three weeks. Clinical efficacy and toxicity were evaluated after every two cycles of chemotherapy. Results Of the 31 patients，1 responded completely，15 responded partially，10 showed stable disease and 5 progressive disease.The most frequent toxic effects associated with neoadjuvant treatment were myelosuppression，nausea and vomiting， and mild hepatic dysfunction. However，these effects were relieved after symptomatic treatment.In addition to chemotherapy，14 patients were treated surgically using R0 resection；4，R1 resection；2，R2 resection.No mortality was associated with the surgeries. Conclusions Neoadjuvant chemotherapy appears safe and effective in patients with potentially resectable gastric cancer. It can result in tumor downstaging， which increases the possibility of surgical resection.

Key words:  Gastric neoplasms, Neoadjavant chemotherapy, Modified DCF regimen, Clinical effects