Just saw this. Certainly explains why some guys have reported losing their libido on Mast and/or Proviron. More Free T is a good thing. However too much driving low SHBG can be bad not only because test can't be carried anywhere properly, but the androgen response is LOWERED in genes:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5136390/
In this study we have demonstrated that in the absence of SHBG large amounts of Te rapidly enter the cell where they are inactivated by conjugation to glucuronic acid and effluxed. In the presence of SHBG however, while there is reduced Te uptake, glucuronidation and efflux of Te are also reduced and the effects of Te on androgen responsive genes are enhanced. This in vitro study of the role of SHBG may have significant clinical relevance, and as such, the assessment of androgen deficiency in vivo should simply rely not only on measurements of total Te alone but also on the evaluation of serum SHBG levels.
These findings clearly demonstrate that SHBG plays an important regulatory and intracellular role to modify Te metabolism and function and to promote cell growth. These observations will need to be confirmed in other androgen sensitive tissues. If a consistent effect is demonstrated, it will significantly change our current understanding of the role of SHBG in health and disease.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5136390/
In this study we have demonstrated that in the absence of SHBG large amounts of Te rapidly enter the cell where they are inactivated by conjugation to glucuronic acid and effluxed. In the presence of SHBG however, while there is reduced Te uptake, glucuronidation and efflux of Te are also reduced and the effects of Te on androgen responsive genes are enhanced. This in vitro study of the role of SHBG may have significant clinical relevance, and as such, the assessment of androgen deficiency in vivo should simply rely not only on measurements of total Te alone but also on the evaluation of serum SHBG levels.
These findings clearly demonstrate that SHBG plays an important regulatory and intracellular role to modify Te metabolism and function and to promote cell growth. These observations will need to be confirmed in other androgen sensitive tissues. If a consistent effect is demonstrated, it will significantly change our current understanding of the role of SHBG in health and disease.