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HCG

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin · Pregnyl · Ovidrel

Hormonal AxisApproved
From$0.06/mgCompare prices
MW
321.35g/mol
Formula
C11H19N3O6S

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein hormone produced primarily by the placenta during pregnancy, classified as a member of the glycoprotein hormone family, which includes luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. Researchers primarily study hCG for its role as a biomarker in pregnancy and various reproductive disorders, as well as its implications in certain cancers. Key findings from studies indicate that hCG levels can be elevated in conditions such as ectopic pregnancy and testicular cancer, while familial hCG syndrome has been identified as a genetic condition leading to false-positive hCG tests in asymptomatic individuals. Current research continues to explore the complex interactions of hCG with its receptor and its potential roles beyond pregnancy, including its involvement in inflammatory processes and cancer diagnostics.

Chemical Profile

Chemical Profile

Chemical structure
Chemical Structure
FormulaC11H19N3O6S
Molecular Weight321.35 g/mol
CAS Number9002-61-3
PubChem CID4369448

Half-Life

SCSubcutaneous

~24 to 36 hours

IMIntramuscular

~24 to 36 hours

INIntranasal

Not applicable

POOral

Poor bioavailability

HCG is primarily administered via injection due to its poor oral bioavailability.

Mechanism

Mechanism of Action

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) primarily exerts its effects through the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR), activating signaling pathways such as the cAMP/PKA pathway, which leads to increased steroidogenesis and modulation of reproductive functions. The binding of hCG to LHCGR also influences downstream signaling cascades, including the ERK/MAPK pathway, contributing to cell proliferation and differentiation. While the full spectrum of hCG's mechanisms, particularly in non-reproductive tissues, remains to be completely elucidated, its role in inflammation and potential anti-inflammatory properties have been suggested in various studies.

Research

99 Research Publications

3,734

Total Citations

44

Human/RCT

2.2

Avg. Influence

2025

Latest

Sort
Filter
#01

Immunoassay of human chorionic gonadotropin, its free subunits, and metabolites.

ReviewInfluence4.0
236
The study demonstrated that various hCG-related molecules can cause significant variability in immunoassay results, emphasizing the importance of assay selection in clinical practice.
PubMed
#02

The glycoprotein hormones: recent studies of structure-function relationships.

ReviewInfluence3.0
187
Researchers observed that glycoprotein hormone binding involves specific regions on both the alpha and beta subunits, influencing receptor interactions and biological responses.
PubMed
#03

Luteinizing hormone and human chorionic gonadotropin: origins of difference.

Choi Janet & Smitz Johan · Molecular and cellular endocrinology · 2014

ReviewInfluence9.0
165
Researchers observed that luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) play important roles in ovulation and early pregnancy, but they are not as interchangeable as previously thought. The study highlights differences in how these hormones interact with their common receptor and affect cellular signaling, which could improve diagnostic and treatment strategies for infertility.

Key findings

  1. 01Researchers found that LH and hCG, while similar in structure, have distinct effects on cellular signaling.
  2. 02The study revealed that advancements in hormone purification have led to a better understanding of LH and hCG's unique roles.
  3. 03Increased knowledge of these differences could enhance diagnostic tools and personalized treatment options for infertility.
PubMed
#04

Serum levels of intact human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) and its free alpha and beta subunits, in relation to maternal thyroid stimulation during normal pregnancy.

HumanInfluence2.0
158
Researchers observed that elevated levels of intact hCG and free beta-hCG subunits are associated with suppressed TSH levels during the first trimester of pregnancy in humans.
PubMed
#05

The deactivation of hCG by nicking and dissociation.

In VitroInfluence1.0
146
Researchers observed that nicking of hCG beta-subunit occurs predominantly during pregnancy, leading to a significant decrease in its steroidogenic activity as gestation progresses.
PubMed
#06

Concentrations of human choriogonadotropin, its beta-subunit, and the core fragment of the beta-subunit in serum and urine of men and nonpregnant women.

HumanInfluence3.0
142
The study demonstrated that hCG and its beta-subunit are present in measurable concentrations in the serum and urine of men and nonpregnant women, with levels higher in women.
PubMed
#07

Recent advances in contraceptive vaccine development: a mini-review.

ReviewInfluence3.0
128
The study demonstrated that contraceptive vaccines targeting hCG have shown promise in clinical trials, with a focus on enhancing immunogenicity and efficacy.
PubMed
#08

The heterogeneity of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). III. The occurrence and biological and immunological activities of nicked hCG.

In Vitro
117
Researchers observed that nicked forms of hCG exhibit reduced receptor binding and steroidogenic activity, highlighting the importance of intact hCG for biological function.
PubMed
#09

The ISOBM TD-7 Workshop on hCG and related molecules. Towards user-oriented standardization of pregnancy and tumor diagnosis: assignment of epitopes to the three-dimensional structure of diagnostically and commercially relevant monoclonal antibodies directed against human chorionic gonadotropin and derivatives.

ReviewInfluence3.0
102
The study demonstrated the characterization of monoclonal antibodies against hCG, facilitating improved comparability of immunoassay results for pregnancy and tumor diagnosis.
PubMed
#10

Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy: a review.

ReviewInfluence5.0
81
Researchers observed that women with nausea and vomiting in early pregnancy exhibit a distinct metabolic pattern and may have a low functional reserve of liver capacity, potentially linked to estrogen sensitivity.
PubMed
Safety

Safety & Handling

Research Gaps

The mechanisms underlying the Familial hCG Syndrome remain unclear, particularly regarding the genetic basis and how these biologically inactive hCG variants affect overall health and fertility. Additionally, while hCG and hCG beta are recognized as clinical markers, the long-term implications of elevated hCG beta production in non-trophoblastic malignancies are not well understood, warranting further investigation into their diagnostic and prognostic value.

Solubility

HCG is soluble in water and saline solutions but has limited solubility in organic solvents like acetonitrile and DMSO.

Storage & Handling

Lyophilized

Stable for 2+ years at -20°C, 12 months at 4°C

Reconstituted

Use within 30 days when refrigerated at 4°C

Avoid

Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles, direct light

Solvent

Bacteriostatic water or sterile saline recommended

Safety information is derived from published research and may not reflect all known risks. This is not medical advice.

Legal Status

Legal Status

🇩🇪DE

Approved for use in fertility treatments. Not a controlled substance.

🇺🇸US

FDA approved for specific medical uses such as fertility treatments. Not a controlled substance.

🇦🇺AU

TGA approved for use in fertility treatments. Not a controlled substance.

🇬🇧UK

MHRA approved for use in fertility treatments. Not a controlled substance.

Legal status information is provided for general reference only and may not reflect the most current regulatory changes. Always verify with official government sources before making any decisions.

Community Insights

Community Insights

Publications per Year

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Pricing

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Mechanism

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Legal Disclaimer

This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Many substances listed may not be approved for human use and may be subject to drug regulation laws (e.g., AMG in Germany, FDA in the US). PepStack does not encourage the use of any substance on humans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Use of this information is entirely at your own risk. PepStack assumes no liability for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content provided. Full disclaimer