Forms of prostate specific antigen and methods for their detection

摘要

Inactive precursor forms of PSA (pPSA) have been identified. At least one of these forms of pPSA exists in human serum. An expression vector is provided to stably express PSA, in the form of pPSA, in a mammalian system. Methods for detecting inactive precursors of PSA in human physiological fluid are provided. Antibodies specific for pPSA are also provided, as well as diagnostic kits and methods useful in the diagnosis and management of prostate cancer.