Gc-globulin: roles in response to injury.
BACKGROUND
Gc-globulin (vitamin D-binding protein) appears to have important functions in addition to its role as a carrier of vitamin D.


METHODS
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 have shown 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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Meier
Ursula
U
Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry and Central Laboratory, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH)-University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany. umeier@ukaachen.de
Gressner
Olav
O
Lammert
Frank
F
Gressner
Axel M
AM
D000199:Actins / Q000502:physiology; D058186:Acute Kidney Injury / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D015415:Biomarkers / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D007118:Immunoassay; D018805:Sepsis / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D014809:Vitamin D-Binding Protein / Q000032:analysis / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology*
D000199:Actins; D015415:Biomarkers; D014809:Vitamin D-Binding Protein