SHBG, insulin sensitivity and IGF-I IN NIDD males

ABSTRACT

Recent studies have indicated the role of sex hormone binding globulin [SHBG] as a predictor of development of diabetes where low levels have been found in type II diabetic males. In the present study, we extended the previous studies, and we evaluated the levels of SHBG and another important growth factor related to insulin, IGF-I, besides insulin levels in 51 diabetic males. The study also included, 17 completely healthy controls who were age comparable to patients. The study revealed significantly decreased levels of both SHBG and IGF-I in type II diabetic males and significantly elevated insulin levels in comparison with controls. The levels of the 2 proteins exhibited significant positive correlation with each other but significant negative correlation with blood insulin levels, body mass index and indices of glycemic control. Furthermore, diabetes associated with complications either retinopathy or neuropathy was associated with significant deviations of the indices studied in comparison with uncomplicated cases. The present data further indicated the role of insulin in regulating SEBG levels where hyperinsulinemia as reflected by enhanced insulin levels and insulin resistance manifested by high insulin levels and hyperglycemia in type II diabetes would result in its depressed levels. The low IGF-I would indicate defective insulin response, since both IGF-I and insulin share mechanism of action