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Prostatic Acid Phosphatase (PAP)

Definition

The AP isoform secreted by acinar epithelial cells of the prostate gland, found in seminal plasma at concentrations of 25-1,000 U/mL, orders of magnitude above all other body fluids.

Related terms

Acid Phosphatase (AP)
An enzyme present at high concentrations in seminal plasma. The Brentamine Fast Violet B (or SERI AP) spray test detects acid phosphatase...
Brentamine Fast Violet B Test
A two-component spot test in which sodium alpha-naphthyl phosphate (substrate) is hydrolysed by AP to alpha-naphthol, which couples with fast violet B...
False Positive
A test result that indicates the presence of a target analyte when it is absent. In forensic serology this may mean incorrectly...
Fluorescent AP Assay
A more sensitive format using 4-methylumbelliferyl phosphate (4-MUP) as substrate. AP cleaves 4-MUP to 4-methylumbelliferone, which fluoresces under UV. Useful on aged...
Quantitative AP Threshold
A numerical activity level, expressed in units per litre of extract, above which a result is treated as semen-positive. Common thresholds range...

Explained in

  • Acid Phosphatase Screening for SemenThe AP isoform secreted by acinar epithelial cells of the prostate gland, found in seminal plasma at concentrations of 25-1,000 U/mL, orders of magnitude above...

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