Description
Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein, a carrier protein that binds to testosterone and estradiol. SHBG binds to three sex hormones found in both men and women; hormones are estrogen ,dihydrotestosterone and testosterone and takes these hormones throughout your blood. Hormones bound are non-bioavailable and cannot be used by the body.This blood test is used to evaluate overall hormone levels.
SHBG plays an important role in transporting protein for androgen and estrogen hormones. SHBG is predominantly made in the liver however several other tissues produce small quantities. These are released into the bloodstream. The main role of sex hormone-binding globulin is to bind up testosterone and estradiol, preventing these hormones from utilizing the effects on the end tissues. Hence unusual high SHBG levels can result in inadequate amounts of bioavailable testosterone and estradiol, leading to a functional deficiency in these hormones.
SHBG abnormalities can cause indication of excessive hair growth and sexual abnormalities.
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) - Testosterone, dihydrotestosterone and estrogens circulate in serum bound to Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG). SHBG concentrations are increased in pregnancy, hyperthyroidism, cirrhosis, oral estrogen administration and by certain drugs. Concentrations are decreased by testosterone, hypothyroidism, Cushings syndrome, acromegaly and obesity.
