aminolevulinic acid

Definition / meaning of aminolevulinic acid

A topically administered metabolic precursor of protoporphyrin IX. After topical administration, aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is converted to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) which is a photosensitizer. When the proper wavelength of light activates protoporphyrin IX, singlet oxygen is produced, resulting in a local cytotoxic effect.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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