An amino acid belonging to ketocarbonic acids. It is converted into a red fluorescent molecule in tumour cells, which accumulates in tumour cells at a rate 4x higher than in healthy cells. A photosensitiser, the substance can form oxygen radicals with light energy, which destroy the cell. This is why one application of5-aminoleivulinic acid is in treatment in skin carcinomas caused by UV radiation.

Formula: C₅H₉NO₃ .HCl

Molecular weight: 167.59 g/mol

Molecular size: Small

Controlled Substance: No

Precursor: No

Indications: Antineoplastic drugs

Status: Commercial