what is shbg

Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) is a protein that binds to androgens and estrogens in the body. It plays a crucial role by binding strongly to androgens like DHT (dihydrotestosterone), which is significant during puberty as it influences secondary sexual characteristics. High levels of SHBG can affect the levels of free hormones by binding them, thus impacting how much of these hormones are available for the body's use. For example, if SHBG levels are high, less free DHT will be available, affecting certain physiological functions 1.