Received on December 21, 2005
Accepted on May 2, 2006

Reviews

Gc-Globulin: Roles in Response to Injury

¹ Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry and Central Laboratory, Rheinisch-Westfalische Technische Hochschule (RWTH)-University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
² Department of Internal Medicine I, University of Bonn-University Hospital Bonn, Bonn, Germany

^* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: umeier{at}ukaachen.de.

Background: Gc-Globulin (vitamin D-binding protein) appears to have important functions in addition to its role as a carrier of vitamin D.

Approach: We reviewed recent studies focusing on the pathophysiologic functions and clinical significance of Gc-globulin.

Results: Serum concentrations of Gc-globulin, as determined by immunoassay techniques, are decreased in severe injury. The extent of the decrease may have prognostic significance for patient outcomes. Clinical studies and animal models showed that Gc-globulin has an important role in the clearance of procoagulant actin from the circulation after its release during cell necrosis and tissue injury. Gc-Globulin has other potential roles in responses to acute tissue injury through conversion to a macrophage-activating factor, neutrophil chemotactic activity, and enhancement of C5a-mediated signaling.

Conclusion: Considering the important physiologic roles of Gc-globulin in responses to tissue injury, such as clearance of actin, measurement of Gc-globulin may have value in directing the care of patients in many clinical disorders.