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Carrier Protein Interference

Meaning

Carrier protein interference describes a physiological state where the normal function of plasma proteins, such as Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) or Corticosteroid-Binding Globulin (CBG), in transporting and regulating the bioavailability of steroid hormones is disrupted. This disruption can result from exogenous substances, disease states, or nutritional deficiencies, altering the ratio of bound to free hormones. The interference directly impacts the amount of biologically active, or “free,” hormone available to target tissues. Clinical assessment of total hormone levels alone can be misleading when significant carrier protein interference is present.