[Protein binding of steroids].

The role of protein-binding in the physiology of steroids is of great complexity. The following are envisaged: the types of protein, methods of binding and the affinity of steroids for proteins, and the variations in free fraction according to plasma protein levels; the functions of binding proteins on the activity and clearance of steroids as well as on the peripheral conversion of androgens; the factors which influence variations in binding protein levels and in particular the influence of circulating levels of natural hormones and the influence of hormone treatment.