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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 alongside luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). 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 serve as indicators for conditions such as ectopic pregnancy and testicular cancer, with specific variants of hCG being associated with different clinical scenarios. Additionally, recent investigations have uncovered genetic factors, such as Familial hCG Syndrome, which can lead to positive hCG test results in asymptomatic individuals. Current research continues to explore the diverse roles of hCG in both reproductive health and oncology, highlighting its complexity and potential clinical significance.

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

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 processes. Additionally, hCG may influence various biological processes, including cell proliferation and differentiation, although the complete understanding of its signaling mechanisms remains to be fully elucidated.

Research

139 Research Publications

4,350

Total Citations

67

Human/RCT

2.1

Avg. Influence

2025

Latest

Sort
Filter
#01

Characterization of human chorionic gonadotropin as a novel angiogenic factor.

In VitroInfluence6.0
363
The study demonstrated that hCG significantly promotes angiogenesis in uterine endothelial cells and in vivo models, indicating its role as a novel angiogenic factor.
PubMed
#02

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

ReviewInfluence4.0
235
Researchers observed that over 100 immunoassays for hCG-related molecules show significant variability in results, emphasizing the importance of assay selection for accurate diagnosis.
PubMed
#03

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

ReviewInfluence3.0
189
Researchers observed that glycoprotein hormone binding involves specific regions on the alpha and beta subunits, which are crucial for receptor interaction and biological response.
PubMed
#04

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
#05

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
157
The study demonstrated that elevated levels of intact hCG and free beta-hCG subunits correlate with suppressed TSH levels during the first trimester of pregnancy, suggesting a thyrotropic role of hCG.
PubMed
#06

The deactivation of hCG by nicking and dissociation.

HumanInfluence1.0
146
Researchers observed that nicking of hCG occurs primarily during secretion by trophoblast tissue and increases with gestational age, leading to reduced biological activity.
PubMed
#07

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
#08

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

ReviewInfluence3.0
131
Researchers observed that contraceptive vaccines targeting hCG have shown promising results in clinical trials, with a focus on enhancing immunogenicity and efficacy.
PubMed
#09

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

In Vitro
117
The study demonstrated that nicked forms of hCG significantly reduce receptor binding and steroidogenic activity, with a high correlation between the extent of nicking and biological activity.
PubMed
#10

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.

AnimalInfluence3.0
103
The study demonstrated that the ISOBM TD-7 Workshop characterized the epitope structure of monoclonal antibodies against hCG, aiding in the standardization of immunoassays for pregnancy and tumor diagnosis.
PubMed
Safety

Safety & Handling

Research Gaps

The mechanisms underlying the Familial hCG Syndrome remain unclear, particularly regarding the genetic basis and the specific mutations involved in the hCG gene expression that leads to the production of biologically inactive variants. Additionally, there is a lack of comprehensive human trials investigating the clinical implications of hCG and hCG beta determinations in non-trophoblastic malignancies, as well as the long-term effects of hCG testing in asymptomatic individuals.

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

49 total
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Pricing

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    —

Top 5 of 8 offers from 7 vendors. Prices updated daily.

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Mechanism

Tools

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