Lever
Lifestyle
- Regular physical activity
- Weight management
- Stress reduction
Blutwerte · Marker
SHBG
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin · Sexualhormon-bindendes Globulin
Hormone — Reproduktionsachse
- Einheit:
- nmol/L
SHBG quantifies the concentration of sex hormone-binding globulin in the blood, which regulates the bioavailability of sex steroids.
Reference Ranges
Reference
18–144nmol/L
18
20
40
144
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Optimal
Unit · nmol/LRanges can vary based on age, sex, and laboratory standards.
Overview
Übersicht
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a glycoprotein synthesized primarily in the liver, which binds sex steroids such as testosterone and estradiol with high affinity. It plays a crucial role in regulating the bioavailability of these hormones by controlling their distribution between protein-bound and free states in the bloodstream. Researchers have found that SHBG levels are influenced by various factors, including hormonal balance, liver function, and metabolic conditions. Clinically, SHBG is significant in evaluating disorders related to androgen metabolism, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and gynecomastia. Elevated SHBG levels are associated with conditions like hyperthyroidism and hypogonadism, while low levels are linked to insulin resistance and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. For athletes and biohackers, SHBG levels can impact performance and recovery by affecting the availability of testosterone, a key hormone in muscle growth and energy metabolism. However, SHBG levels can be confounded by factors such as age, sex, and the use of certain medications. Time-of-day variations and fasting status can also influence SHBG measurements, necessitating standardized testing conditions for accurate assessment.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated SHBG levels may indicate hyperthyroidism, hypogonadism, or liver dysfunction, while reduced levels can suggest insulin resistance, obesity, or polycystic ovary syndrome.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising SHBG values may suggest worsening liver function or increased estrogen activity. Re-test in 4-6 weeks if outside the normal range.
Falling Values
Falling SHBG levels may indicate increasing insulin resistance or androgen activity.
Re-test Interval
4 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Hyperthyroidism
- Hypogonadism
- Androgen insensitivity
- Hepatic cirrhosis
- Use of estrogens
Cause
Low Levels
- Insulin resistance
- Obesity
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Hypothyroidism
- Excessive androgen activity
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Balanced diet with adequate protein
- Reduced intake of refined sugars
Lever
Supplementation
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamin D
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before making significant lifestyle or dietary changes, especially if underlying health conditions are present.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
✓Not Time-Sensitive
SHBG levels can vary with circadian rhythms; morning samples are preferred for consistency.
Testing Frequency
Annually for adults with risk factors, or as advised by a healthcare provider.
Interfering Factors
- Use of oral contraceptives
- Thyroid medications
- Liver disease
Related Peptides & Hormones
Testosterone
hormoneCorrelated with
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that the reference ranges for SHBG levels in various populations, particularly in men with gynecomastia and women with polycystic ovary syndrome, remain debated. Researchers have not yet established optimal SHBG targets for therapeutic interventions or fully elucidated the confounding effects of insulin resistance and thyroid function on SHBG levels. Additionally, clinical questions regarding the role of SHBG in the pathogenesis of conditions like NAFLD and its potential as a therapeutic target remain unanswered.
40 Research Publications
2,080
Total Citations
16
Human/RCT
4.3
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
Estrogen: a master regulator of bioenergetic systems in the brain and body.
ReviewInfluence15.0
506
This study highlighted estrogen's role as a regulator of metabolic systems in the body. Researchers found that estrogen influences energy metabolism and may impact cognitive decline during menopause. The study suggests that biomarker profiles could help identify women at risk for metabolic and cognitive issues.
02Top
#02
The endocrine system and ageing.
ReviewInfluence10.0
303
This article discussed changes in the endocrine system due to aging, including increased SHBG levels. Researchers observed that these hormonal changes can lead to various health issues, emphasizing the complexity of aging's impact on hormone regulation.
03Top
#03
Sex hormone binding globulin: origin, function and clinical significance.
ReviewInfluence7.0
273
This review detailed the origin and function of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG). Researchers found that SHBG levels are influenced by various factors, including hormonal balance and diseases, and its measurement can aid in evaluating androgen metabolism disorders.
04
#04
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) as an Early Biomarker and Therapeutic Target in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
Qu Xianqin & Donnelly Richard · International journal of molecular sciences · 2020
ReviewInfluence2.0
188
This review focused on sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) as a potential biomarker in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Researchers observed that low SHBG levels correlate with insulin resistance and ovarian pathology, suggesting its role in the pathogenesis of PCOS.
Key findings
- 01Researchers observed a negative correlation between SHBG levels and markers of liver disease and insulin resistance.
- 02Low SHBG levels may lead to higher androgen levels, contributing to the symptoms of PCOS.
- 03Emerging evidence indicates that SHBG could be a useful biomarker for diagnosing and managing PCOS.
05
#05
Sex hormone-binding globulin and polycystic ovary syndrome.
ReviewInfluence4.0
143
This review explored the relationship between sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Researchers found that low SHBG levels are associated with hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance in women with PCOS. The study highlights the importance of SHBG in understanding PCOS pathology.
06
#06
EAA clinical practice guidelines-gynecomastia evaluation and management.
ReviewInfluence8.0
139
This study examined clinical practice guidelines for evaluating and managing gynecomastia in men. Researchers found that sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels, along with other hormonal assessments, are important in the evaluation of gynecomastia to identify underlying conditions. The study emphasizes the need for thorough medical history and physical examinations.
07
#07
Comparative effects of daily and weekly boron supplementation on plasma steroid hormones and proinflammatory cytokines.
HumanInfluence2.0
121
This study investigated the effects of boron supplementation on plasma steroid hormones and inflammatory biomarkers. Researchers observed that boron supplementation significantly decreased SHBG levels and proinflammatory cytokines while increasing free testosterone levels. The findings suggest a potential role for boron in modulating hormone levels.
08
#08
Endocrinology of gynaecomastia.
ReviewInfluence4.0
81
This review explored the endocrinology of gynecomastia, noting its occurrence across various age groups. Researchers observed that SHBG levels, among other hormonal tests, are crucial for identifying underlying causes of gynecomastia, particularly in older men where malignancy must be ruled out.
09
#09
Sex hormone-binding globulin: biomarker and hepatokine?
Simons Pomme I H G, et al. · Trends in endocrinology and metabolism: TEM · 2021
Review
63
This review highlighted recent findings on sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) as a hepatokine. Researchers observed that SHBG levels are linked to metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for these conditions.
Key findings
- 01Researchers observed that genetic factors influencing SHBG levels are associated with metabolic syndrome.
- 02They identified a direct link between low SHBG levels and the development of type 2 diabetes in women.
- 03The study suggests that therapies aimed at raising SHBG could help address disorders like type 2 diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome.
10
#10
Sex hormone binding globulin as a potential drug candidate for liver-related metabolic disorders treatment.
Bourebaba Nabila, et al. · Biomedicine & pharmacotherapy = Biomedecine & pharmacotherapie · 2022
ReviewInfluence1.0
59
This review discussed the potential of SHBG as a therapeutic target for liver-related metabolic disorders. Researchers found that SHBG levels are linked to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, indicating its role in managing conditions like obesity and diabetes.
Key findings
- 01Researchers observed that SHBG levels are linked to insulin resistance and may predict the risk of type 2 diabetes.
- 02Increased inflammation in the body is associated with lower levels of SHBG.
- 03The review suggests that SHBG could be a promising candidate for developing new therapies for metabolic disorders such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Clinical Trials (1)
1
Total Trials
250
Total Enrolled
Sex Hormone Binding Globulin, Testosterone and Glycemic Control in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes
NCT03519529COMPLETED
Sponsor
Nanjing First Hospital, Nanjing Medical University
Enrollment
250
Started
2015
Primary outcome
sex hormone-binding globulin
Type2 Diabetes
Publication Trend
Research publications about SHBG over time
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