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Biochemical characteristics and recent biological knowledge on prostate-specific antigen
E Seregni1, C Botti, G Ballabio
1Nuclear Medicine Department, Istituto Nazionale per lo Studio e la Cura dei Tumori, Milano, Italy.
Tumori
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a kallikrein-like serine protease involved in semen liquefaction. New findings on PSA
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Urology
Background:
- Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) identified in 1971.
- PSA is a glycoprotein and kallikrein-like serine protease.
- Physiologic role: semen liquefaction via protein degradation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review new information on PSA biology and expression.
- To discuss factors influencing PSA synthesis and production.
- To explore implications of PSA molecular isoforms for clinical applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PSA biology, genetics, and expression.
- Analysis of PSA structure, function, and homology with human glandular kallikrein (hKGK1).
- Examination of PSA presence in various tissues and fluids, and its binding properties.
Main Results:
- PSA gene located on chromosome 19q13, homologous to hKGK1.
- PSA expressed in prostate tissues, accessory glands, breast cancer, and milk.
- PSA isoforms identified, binding to different inhibitors in seminal fluid and serum.
Conclusions:
- PSA synthesis influenced by androgens, retinoic acid, and growth factors.
- Understanding PSA isoforms is crucial for its use as a prostate cancer tumor marker.
- New findings enhance the clinical utility of PSA in oncology.