HCG
HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) is a glycoprotein hormone consisting of two subunits (α and β) produced during pregnancy in humans. In preclinical research, recombinant or purified HCG has been studied in animal models and in vitro systems for its ability to mimic luteinizing hormone (LH), stimulate gonadal steroidogenesis, and support reproductive tissue maintenance.[1][2]
Key Research Areas
- Gonadal Steroidogenesis & Reproductive Function – In rodent and primate models, HCG administration has been shown to induce testosterone production in Leydig cells, promote ovarian follicle development, and support corpus luteum function in experimental reproductive cycles.[3][4]
- Testicular & Ovarian Tissue Maintenance – Preclinical studies demonstrate HCG's role in preventing testicular atrophy in hypophysectomized animals, maintaining spermatogenesis, and preserving ovarian structure in models of gonadotropin suppression.[5][6]
- Endocrine Signaling Pathways – In vitro cell culture and animal research indicate HCG activates the LH/CG receptor, increases cAMP production, and modulates downstream steroidogenic enzyme expression in gonadal tissues.[7][8]
Product Specifications
| CAS Number |
177073-44-8 (recombinant HCG) |
| Molecular Formula |
Glycoprotein (α-subunit ~14 kDa, β-subunit ~22 kDa) |
| Molar Mass |
~36-40 kDa (heterodimer) |
| Sequence |
N/A (glycoprotein hormone with two subunits; complex structure) |
| Synonyms |
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, hCG, Choriogonadotropin |
| Purity |
Research Grade (≥98% by SDS-PAGE/HPLC) |
| Form |
Lyophilized powder |
| Storage |
−20°C (long-term), 2–8°C (reconstituted) |
| Solubility |
Sterile water or bacteriostatic water for reconstitution |
References
- 1. Cole LA. Biological functions of hCG and hCG-related molecules. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2010. PubMed
- 2. Stenman UH, et al. Human chorionic gonadotropin in cancer. Clin Biochem. 2006. PubMed
- 3. Ascoli M, et al. The luteinizing hormone receptor. Endocr Rev. 2002. PubMed
- 4. Huhtaniemi I. Gonadotropin signaling in the ovary and testis. Reprod Biol. 2010. PubMed
- 5. Sharpe RM. Regulation of spermatogenesis. Endocr Rev. 1994. PubMed
- 6. McLachlan RI, et al. Hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis. Baillieres Clin Endocrinol Metab. 1992. (HCG in suppression models)
- 7. Themmen APN, et al. The luteinizing hormone receptor. Reprod Biomed Online. 2005. PubMed
- 8. Pierce JG, et al. Structure and function of glycoprotein hormones. Annu Rev Biochem. 1981. PubMed
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