SHBG Human
Description
The Human SHBG is purified by proprietary chromatographic techniques.
Product Specs
Product Science Overview
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein that plays a crucial role in the transport and regulation of sex steroids, including testosterone and estradiol, in the bloodstream . SHBG is produced primarily in the liver and has a high affinity for binding to sex hormones, thereby regulating their bioavailability and access to target tissues .
SHBG is a homodimeric glycoprotein, meaning it consists of two identical subunits. Each subunit has a single steroid-binding site . The protein has a molecular weight of approximately 95 kDa . SHBG binds to androgens and estrogens with varying affinities, with the highest affinity for dihydrotestosterone (DHT), followed by testosterone and estradiol . The binding of these hormones to SHBG reduces their lipophilicity, making them more soluble in the bloodstream and less likely to diffuse into cells .
The primary site of SHBG synthesis is the liver, although it is also produced in smaller amounts in other tissues such as the testes and brain . The production of SHBG is regulated by various factors, including hormonal balance, metabolic status, and genetic factors . Estrogens increase SHBG production, while androgens decrease it . Other factors that influence SHBG levels include thyroid hormones, insulin, and dietary factors .
SHBG levels in the blood can provide valuable information about an individual’s hormonal status and are often measured in clinical settings to assess conditions related to sex hormone imbalances . Elevated SHBG levels are associated with conditions such as hyperthyroidism, liver cirrhosis, and the use of oral contraceptives . Conversely, decreased SHBG levels are observed in conditions like hypothyroidism, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), obesity, and elevated androgen levels .
Human recombinant SHBG is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the gene encoding SHBG into a suitable host cell, such as bacteria or yeast, to produce the protein in large quantities . This recombinant form of SHBG is used in research and clinical applications to study its function, interactions with sex hormones, and potential therapeutic uses .
