Phase 1 trial of 5-ALA, tumor‑targeted fluorescent imaging agent in sarcoma

This study evaluates whether oral 5-ALA (20 mg/kg), which is metabolized within tumor cells to emit fluorescence, can improve intraoperative visualization of soft tissue sarcomas in FNCLCC Grade 2 or 3 patients. Participants take the drug 3–4 hours before surgery to assist surgeons in distinguishing tumor tissue from surrounding healthy tissue, with subsequent gross and histological margin assessments. The trial is conducted by the University of Colorado, Denver.