Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) (PSA)

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA), also known as Kallikrein-3 (KLK3), is a serine protease produced primarily by the epithelial cells of the prostate gland. Its primary physiological function is the liquefaction of the seminal coagulum through the cleavage of proteins such as semenogelin, which facilitates sperm motility. In clinical practice, PSA is the most widely utilized serum biomarker for the screening, diagnosis, and monitoring of prostate cancer, as its levels often rise significantly in the presence of malignant cells. While PSA is predominantly used as a diagnostic tool, it is also considered a therapeutic target for cancer vaccines, such as PROSTVAC, which are designed to stimulate the immune system to recognize and destroy PSA-expressing tumor cells. However, its utility as a direct drug target is complicated by its secretion into the systemic circulation, which can neutralize targeted agents before they reach the tumor site. The term "Prostate cancer antigen" is considered imprecise as it is frequently used as a generic descriptor for PSA, Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), or Prostate cancer antigen 3 (PCA3).

Other names

Kallikrein-3KLK3Gamma-seminoproteinSemininP-30 antigen

Antigen for immunotherapy (vaccines); Proteolytic activity (enzyme)