ST AIA-PACK SHBG

Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), one of blood transport proteins, is a large homodimeric glycoprotein that especially binds testosterone and estradiol. It is mostly synthesized in the liver and is released into the bloodstream. The biological activities of these sex steroids in plasma are regulated by plasma SHBG, since its high binding affinity to the steroids limits their access to target cells.

It is suggested that SHBG concentrations are influenced by various factors, such as thyroid hormones, estrogens, insulin and several growth factors. Increases in SHBG levels are found in hyperthyroidism, hepatic cirrhosis and pregnancy. High SHBG values are also seen with oral estrogen treatment, tamoxifen administration and Klinefelter’s syndrome. Decreases in SHBG levels are observed in female patients with hirsutism, hyperandrogenism, or insulin resistance syndrome. In hypothyroidism, SHBG is often lowered. SHBG is widely measured together with testosterone assays to calculate the “Free Androgen Index” (FAI), the ratio of total testosterone level derived by SHBG level. The FAI is known as a useful indicator to determine abnormal androgen status.

Technical specifications

Refer to the product Instruction-For-Use (IFU) for complete details.