Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) in Serum
This test measures the level of Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP) in your blood serum. DBP helps transport vitamin D and other hormones in your bloodstream.
["DBP levels may affect how your body processes certain vitamins and hormones."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 43556-0
- Short code
- MRA Lower leg ves-R
- Synonyms
- MRA Lower leg ves-R
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 20
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr-angio
- CPT
- 85651
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Vitamin D Binding Protein?
Vitamin D Binding Protein (DBP), also known as group-specific component (Gc), is a protein in your blood that binds to vitamin D and other hormones like cortisol and sex hormones. It helps transport these substances efficiently throughout your body. While its primary role is related to vitamin D metabolism, DBP can influence how other hormones are distributed.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to hormone or vitamin D imbalances, such as kidney disease, liver disease, or certain metabolic disorders. It may also be part of broader evaluations for conditions affecting protein metabolism or hormone transport.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The blood is processed to separate serum (the liquid part after clotting), which is then analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure DBP levels.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are typically reported as a concentration of DBP in the serum. While reference ranges can vary slightly by lab, abnormal levels may indicate underlying health concerns, such as protein disorders or conditions affecting hormone transport.
Reference range
Adult males: 0-15 mm/hr; Females: 0-20 mm/hrN/A
No special preparation required. CRP may be affected by acute illness.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: DBP and Health Conditions
Short name
DBP Serum
Frequently asked questions
DBP plays a role in transporting vitamins and hormones, but its primary clinical relevance often ties to conditions affecting vitamin D metabolism or protein synthesis. For example, low DBP levels may be associated with certain genetic disorders or kidney/liver dysfunction. However, isolated DBP testing is less common and usually part of broader diagnostic workups for suspected metabolic or endocrine disorders.
What causes abnormal DBP levels?
How often should I get this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy