In this article, we will discuss Aminolevulinic Acid Hydrochloride (Mechanism of Action). So, let’s get started.
Mechanism of Action
Aminolevulinic Acid Hydrochloride occurs endogenously as a metabolite that is formed in the mitochondria from succinyl-CoA
and glycine. Exogenous administration of ALA leads to accumulation of the ALA metabolite PpIX in tumor cells. The reason for the accumulation of PpIX in neoplastic brain tissue is not known.
During glioma surgery, Aminolevulinic Acid Hydrochloride is used with an operating microscope adapted with a blue emitting light source (power density 40-80 mW/cm²) and filters for excitation light of wavelength 375 to 440 nm, and observation at wavelengths of 620 to 710 nm. This allows tumor tissue to be visualized as red fluorescence. Tissue lacking sufficient PpIX concentrations appears blue.
Pharmacodynamics
The effect of the timing of the Aminolevulinic Acid Hydrochloride dosing on fluorescence intensity in brain tissue is unknown. The relationship between systemic Aminolevulinic Acid Hydrochloride plasma concentrations at the time of visualization and fluorescence intensity in brain is also unknown. The dose of 20 mg / kg provided stronger ALA-induced fluorescence in glioma tissue by both visual and spectrophotometric assessment compared to lower doses tested.
Cardiac Electrophysiology
Administration of the approved recommended dose of Aminolevulinic Acid Hydrochloride did not prolong the QT interval to any clinically relevant extent.