Abstract
Since Testo-sterone is specifically bound to SHBG, this globulin may determine the availability of physiologically active testosterone at different stages of pubertal development. Furthermore its concentration could be of importance under pathological conditions, particularly in such cases, in which an androgen disturbance exists. To investigate this subject, a method for the quantitative determination of SHBG in human plasma was developed. 200 μl of plasma, steroid free after absorption to charcoal were incubated in excess with 3H-DHT at 37°C for 30 min. A 1:10 diluted portion was then precipitated with saturated ammonium sulfate, and filtered through a millipore membrane to separate the globulin fraction from albumin, free and albumin bound DHT. Taking into account that SHBG has one specific binding site, the molar concentration of SHBG in the globulin fraction was calculated considering the specific activity of DHT and the molecular weight of SHBG (=100,000). The results were expressed in mg/l. SHBG was measured in a group of normal boys and the results were evaluated in relation to the genitalia developmental stages. The average value of 4.8 mg/l in G I boys decreased to 1.8 mg/l in GIV-GV boys. Boys with disturbances of male development were also studied. In cryptorchidism higher SHBG concentrations were found when the values were considered according to chronological age or to bone age.
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Attanasio, A., Blank, B., Rager, K. et al. SEXUAL HORMONE BINDING GLOBULIN (SHBG) DURING MALE PUBERTAL DEVELOPMENT IN NORMAL AND PATHOLOGICAL CONDITIONS. Pediatr Res 9, 666 (1975). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197508000-00013
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197508000-00013