Amotosalen

**Semantic type:** Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A synthetic psoralen, light-activated DNA and RNA crosslinking agent, with protective activity against pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and leukocytes. Prior to administration amotosalen is added to plasma and platelets, then in vivo this agent penetrates pathogens and targets DNA and RNA. Upon activation by ultraviolet A light, this agent is able to form interstrand DNA and RNA crosslinks and prevents replication. Inactivation of leukocytes can prevent graft versus host disease upon transfusion.

**Synonyms:** - AMOTOSALEN