Serpina6, encoding corticosteroid-binding globulin (CBG), is a crucial gene. CBG is produced by the liver and regulates the plasma distribution and actions of glucocorticoids, which control hepatic development and metabolic activities. Genetic models, like disrupting SerpinA6 gene expression in rats, help study its functions [1,2].

In rats, disrupting SerpinA6 gene expression shows that CBG limits corticosterone clearance by reducing its hepatic uptake. Also, it consolidates the sexual dimorphism of the rat liver initiated by sex differences in growth hormone secretion patterns. In the absence of CBG, total plasma corticosterone levels were ∼80% lower in adult rats of both sexes, and the sex-specific adrenal growth and gene expression differences that emerge during puberty were lost [1,2].

In conclusion, Serpina6-encoded CBG is essential for regulating glucocorticoid-related processes. Studies using gene-disrupted rat models have revealed its role in plasma corticosterone dynamics, sexual dimorphism of the liver and adrenal development. These findings provide insights into how Serpina6 deficiencies are linked to glucocorticoid-dependent diseases [1,2].