As a precursor of a photosensitizer, 5ALA is also used as an add-on agent for photodynamic therapy. In contrast to larger photosensitizer molecules, it is predicted by computer simulations to be able to penetrate tumor cell membranes. Cancer diagnosis Photodynamic detection is the use of photosensitive drugs with a light source of the right wavelength for the detection of cancer, using fluorescence of the drug. 5ALA, or derivatives thereof, can be used to visualize bladder cancer by fluorescence imaging. Cancer treatment<unk>  is being studied for photodynamic therapy (PDT) in a number of types of cancer. It is not currently a first line treatment for Barrett's esophagus. Its use in brain cancer is currently experimental. It has been studied in a number of gynecological cancers.<unk>  is indicated in adults for visualization of malignant tissue during surgery for malignant glioma (World Health Organization grade III and IV). It is used to visualise tumorous tissue in neurosurgical procedures. Studies since 2006 have shown that the intraoperative use of this guiding method may reduce the tumour residual volume and prolong progression-free survival in people with malignant gliomas. The US FDA approved<unk>  hydrochloride <unk>  HCL) for this use in 2017.
Aminolevulinic acid
Tetrahydrobiopterin
Fosdenopterin
Hepcidin
Lipochrome
Hematoporphyrin
Beta-2 transferrin
Retinol-binding protein