What does PSA stand for in a forensic context?

In a forensic context, PSA stands for Prostate-Specific Antigen. This substance is an important biomarker in forensic investigations, particularly in sexual assault cases, as it is found in higher concentrations in the seminal fluid of males. The presence of PSA can be used to help identify biological fluids at a crime scene, allowing forensic experts to confirm whether the fluid may originate from male ejaculate. This can aid in the investigation by linking a suspect to the scene or to a specific biological evidence sample.

Other candidates do not correctly represent common forensic applications. For instance, while pathogen-specific antibodies could relate to forensic microbiology, they are not typically referred to by the abbreviation PSA in this field. Polymerase string analysis isn't a recognized technique in forensic analysis, and while preliminary sperm assessment could be related to semen analysis, it is not a standard term abbreviated as PSA. Thus, Prostate-Specific Antigen stands out as the correct answer in forensic analysis contexts.