The enzyme acid phosphatase (autophosphoryl one-monoester phosphohydrolase) is used for phosphatases that function at acidic pH. This enzyme is generally present in the lysosomes of all cells. The highest levels of this enzyme are found in the prostate, bones, spleen, platelets, and red blood cells. Tartrates strongly inhibit lysosomal and pancreatic enzymes, but erythrocytic and bone enzymes are not inhibited. The highest serum activity of this enzyme comes from the bones. The activity of this enzyme increases in children (due to bone growth), hyperparathyroidism, Paget’s disease, and bone cancers. For a long time, this enzyme has been used for diagnosing and indicating prostate carcinoma. Currently, prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is used for diagnosing prostate cancer.
1 minute read
