Serpin A6

Serpin A6 is better known as corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG, transcortin), an unusual non-inhibitory member of the serpin superfamily. Synthesized chiefly by the liver and present in plasma at micromolar concentration, CBG carries the high-affinity binding sites for cortisol and progesterone and thus governs the distribution, half-life, and bioavailability of glucocorticoids in blood. Rather than trapping proteases, it releases hormone at sites of inflammation where neutrophil elastase cleaves its reactive center loop, lowering steroid affinity and delivering cortisol precisely where needed. Genetic CBG deficiency causes chronic fatigue and hypotension phenotypes. Recombinant Serpin A6 is used in steroid transport, binding, and regulated-release studies.