What is the Origin of SHBG Levels?

The term combines the acronym for the protein, SHBG, with levels, indicating a quantitative measure of its concentration. Its discovery and characterization were essential for differentiating between total circulating hormone and the physiologically relevant fraction of free hormone, leading to a more nuanced understanding of endocrine function.

What is the Mechanism of SHBG Levels?

The protein functions by binding with high affinity to sex hormones, effectively sequestering them in an inactive state and providing a circulating reservoir. Alterations in SHBG levels, which can be influenced by thyroid status, insulin levels, and liver function, directly impact the bioavailability of free testosterone and estradiol. High SHBG reduces free hormone, while low SHBG increases it, thus acting as a crucial modulator of androgen and estrogen action.

SHBG Levels

Meaning

SHBG Levels refer to the measured concentration of Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin, a glycoprotein synthesized primarily by the liver that circulates in the bloodstream and binds to sex steroid hormones, namely testosterone and estradiol. SHBG acts as a transport protein, regulating the amount of biologically active, or “free,” hormone available to interact with target tissues. Clinically, the measured level is critical for interpreting total hormone levels and assessing true androgen or estrogen status.

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