Sex steroids and their relationship to binding proteins in the serum of the marmoset monkey (Callithrix jacchus)

Abstract

A sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) similar to human SHBG was identified in marmoset serum based on its gel electrophoretic mobility, isoelectric point and steroid binding properties. Levels of serum SHBG were measured in immature and mature males, immature females and females during the luteal phase and pregnancy; serum progesterone, 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT), testosterone, oestradiol-17β and oestrone were also measured. Mean (± s.e.m.) concentrations of SHBG in immature males (336 ±19 nmol/l) were higher (P r= −0·67) and 5α-DHT (r = −0·86) in males, but the correlation was significant (P P r = −0·78, testosterone; r = −0·56, 5α-DHT).