Transcortin and vitamin D-binding protein levels in mouse serum

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Genetics
• Animal Science

Background:

• Serum concentrations of transcortin (corticosteroid-binding globulin) and vitamin D-binding protein (DBP) are crucial biomarkers.
• Understanding factors influencing these protein levels is vital for physiological and pharmacological research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the influence of age, sex, and strain on serum transcortin and DBP concentrations in mice.
• To determine the extent of genetic control over variations in these protein levels.

Main Methods:

• Serum samples were collected from mice of different ages, sexes, and strains (C57BL/6JPfd, BALB/cmHeAPfd, and others).
• Concentrations of transcortin and DBP were measured using biochemical assays.
• Statistical analyses, including correlation and variation analyses, were performed to assess the impact of age, sex, and strain.

Main Results:

• Both transcortin and DBP concentrations increased with age in mice.
• Significant strain differences were observed in young animals for both proteins, but these diminished with age for DBP.
• Transcortin exhibited marked strain variations, suggesting strong genetic control, and correlated with corticosterone levels.

Conclusions:

• Age and genetic background are significant determinants of serum transcortin and DBP levels in mice.
• Transcortin levels are primarily influenced by genetic factors, showing substantial interstrain variation.
• Sex influences transcortin levels in older mice, while DBP levels show sex differences primarily in younger adult mice.