Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG)

SHBG is a protein, produced mainly by the liver, that binds to sex hormones—primarily testosterone and estrogen—in the bloodstream. By attaching to these hormones, SHBG regulates how much is available for use by tissues. Only the “free” (unbound) portion of a hormone is biologically active. SHBG levels can be influenced by age, sex, liver function, thyroid status, and metabolic conditions. Low SHBG may be associated with insulin resistance or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while high levels can occur in liver disease or hyperthyroidism. Measuring SHBG helps clinicians interpret total hormone levels more accurately, especially when symptoms and lab values do not align. 71

Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) VMR Male Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) RR Male Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) VMR Female Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) RR Female


[71]Thaler MA, Seifert-Klauss V, Luppa PB. The biomarker sex hormone-binding globulin – From established applications to emerging trends in clinical medicine. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2015;29(5):749-760. doi:10.1016/j.beem.2015.06.005

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