JoVE - Journal of Visualized Experiments
JoVE Visualize
Contact Us

From bench to bedside: the evolution and future of prostate-specific antigen testing

  • 0Department of Microbiology, College of Osteopathic Medicine, Des Moines University, Immunology & Pathology, West Des Moines, IA, 50266, USA.
Medical Oncology +

|

September 20, 2025

|

September 20, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is crucial for prostate cancer detection and monitoring. While valuable, its limitations necessitate ongoing research for improved accuracy and personalized screening strategies.

Area Of Science

  • Urology
  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry

Background

  • Prostate cancer is a leading cancer in males in the U.S.
  • Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) is a key biomarker for prostate cancer diagnosis and management.
  • PSA has been clinically utilized for screening since FDA approval in 1994.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To review the historical development and properties of PSA.
  • To analyze the clinical applications of PSA in prostate cancer detection, staging, and monitoring.
  • To discuss current limitations and future innovations for enhancing PSA's diagnostic accuracy.

Main Methods

  • Literature review of historical development, biochemical properties, and clinical applications of PSA.
  • Analysis of advantages (early detection, mortality reduction) and limitations (false positives, overdiagnosis) of PSA testing.
  • Exploration of recent innovations including PSA derivatives, imaging, urinary biomarkers, and risk calculators.

Main Results

  • PSA testing offers benefits in early prostate cancer detection and reducing mortality.
  • Limitations of PSA testing include false positives, overdiagnosis, and overtreatment risks.
  • Emerging tools aim to improve diagnostic accuracy and personalize screening strategies.

Conclusions

  • PSA remains a valuable but imperfect biomarker in prostate cancer care.
  • Ongoing research focuses on enhancing PSA specificity and integrating it into personalized screening.
  • Improved understanding and application of PSA can aid clinicians in effective prostate cancer management.

Keywords: