PSA Prostate Specific Antigen

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)is a 34 kD glycoprotein manufactured almost exclusively by the prostate gland. PSA is a ejaculate component and it liquifies the semen in the seminal coagulum and allows sperm to swim freely. It is also believed to be instrumental in dissolving the cervical mucous cap, allowing the entry of sperm.

In women, PSA is found in female ejaculate at concentrations roughly equal to that found in male semen. It is highly probable that PSA in women will help the sperm to dissolve the cervical cap and to enter the egg.

Anyway, prostate specific antigen, PSA is the best example of a biomarker. Being a glycoprotein which is easily detected in blood PSA is a good indicator prostate cancer. High serum levels of PSA are indicating prostate cancer.

Genetic tests based on genome sequencing will tell you whether you are prone to prostate cancer or not. However, with the current technology genetic tests can not replace bio-markers, which tell you whether you are prostate cancer or not at the very moment.

Genetics tells you about the future. Biochemistry talks about the very moment.

It is now or in the future.

http://www.andrologysociety.co...
http://www3.interscience.wiley...