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HCG

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin · Pregnyl · Ovidrel

Hormonal AxisApproved
From$356.40/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 gonadotropin family. Researchers primarily study hCG for its role as a biomarker in pregnancy and various reproductive health conditions, 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, spontaneous abortion, and certain tumors, while familial hCG syndrome has been identified as a genetic condition leading to false-positive hCG tests in asymptomatic individuals. Additionally, research has highlighted the complex interactions between hCG and its receptor, suggesting that hCG may have broader implications in both reproductive and non-reproductive health contexts. Current research continues to explore the diverse roles of hCG and its variants, particularly in clinical diagnostics and potential therapeutic applications.

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 acts through the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR), activating signaling pathways such as the adenylate cyclase/cAMP pathway and the phospholipase C pathway. This leads to increased intracellular cAMP levels, promoting steroidogenesis and influencing reproductive processes such as ovulation and maintenance of pregnancy. While the receptor binding and initial signaling mechanisms are well characterized, some aspects of hCG's broader biological effects remain incompletely understood.

Research

92 Research Publications

3,375

Total Citations

40

Human/RCT

2.0

Avg. Influence

2025

Latest

Sort
Filter
#01

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

ReviewInfluence4.0
236
Researchers observed that multiple hCG-related molecules in pregnancy serum and urine lead to interassay discordance in hCG determinations, necessitating careful selection of immunoassays.
PubMed
#02

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

ReviewInfluence3.0
187
The study demonstrated that specific structural features of glycoprotein hormones, including hCG, are essential for receptor binding and biological responses, highlighting the role of synthetic peptides in this research.
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 its free subunits correlate with suppressed TSH levels in pregnant women, suggesting a thyrotropic role of hCG during early pregnancy.
PubMed
#05

The deactivation of hCG by nicking and dissociation.

In VitroInfluence1.0
145
Researchers observed that nicking of hCG molecules occurs during pregnancy and correlates with gestational age, affecting the hormone's steroidogenic activity.
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.

HumanInfluence3.0
128
Researchers observed that the hCG vaccine is the first contraceptive vaccine to undergo Phase I and II clinical trials in humans, demonstrating efficacy and lack of immunopathology.
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, with a significant correlation between the extent of nicking and biological activity.
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

Free human chorionic gonadotropin beta subunit in gonadal and nongonadal neoplasms.

Case ReportInfluence4.0
79
The study demonstrated that elevated levels of free hCG beta subunit in serum are highly diagnostic of aggressive nongonadal malignancies, particularly in testicular cancers.
PubMed
Safety

Safety & Handling

Research Gaps

The mechanisms underlying Familial hCG Syndrome remain poorly understood, particularly regarding the genetic mutations responsible for the production of biologically inactive hCG variants. Additionally, there is a lack of comprehensive human trials investigating the long-term effects of hCG and hCG beta as clinical markers in non-trophoblastic malignancies, leaving their efficacy and safety in these contexts uncertain.

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

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Pricing

Price Comparison

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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