DBP Background Information Vitamin D-binding protein (DBP) is a multi-functional serum protein that binds to the plasma membranes of numerous cell types and mediates a variety of cellular functions. The locus of the DBP protein (also known as group-specific component protein or GC) is located at human chromosome 4q13.3. DBP functions in organ-specific transportation of vitamin D and its metabolites to the various target organs of the vitamin D endocrine system. In addition, DBP has immunomodulatory properties and is able to bind to the surface of leukocytes. DBP binds to the plasma membrane through a chondroitin sulfate proteoglycan. DBP serves as a co-chemotactic factor for C5a to enhance the chemotactic activity of C5a. DBP can also bind to globular Actin with high affinity and is involved in the clearance of Actin from the blood. DBP plays an important role in osteoclast differentiation. The diverse cellular functions of DBP require its cell surface binding ability to mediate different biological processes.
