Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (Placental Glycoprotein Hormone) – hCG

Product Overview

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a highly complex, heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone that bridges the fields of reproductive endocrinology, pregnancy biology, and oncology research. While it shares a common alpha-subunit with hormones like LH, FSH, and TSH, hCG is distinctly characterized by its unique hormone-specific beta-subunit and heavy glycosylation pattern. This precise structural variation grants the compound an extended, long-acting biological profile, making it a cornerstone research material for studying gonadal receptor activation, steroidogenesis, and placental modeling.

Technical Specifications

• Molecular Structure: Heterodimeric glycoprotein composed of a common α‐subunit and a hormone‐specific β‐subunit linked non-covalently

• Molecular Weight: ~36.7 kDa (consistent with intact glycosylated hormone)

• Receptor Target: LH/hCG receptor (LHCGR)

Mechanism of Action

hCG exerts its profound biological effects primarily through targeted G protein-coupled receptor pathways:

• LHCGR Activation: Serves as the natural, high-affinity ligand for the LH/hCG receptor in both gonadal and extra-gonadal tissues.

• cAMP Pathway Upregulation: Receptor binding activates the Gs protein cascade, elevating intracellular cAMP levels to aggressively drive steroidogenesis and gametogenesis.

• Gonadal Cell Stimulation: In male in vitro and animal models, it acts as a potent LH surrogate to stimulate Leydig cells for testosterone production and supports Sertoli cell-mediated spermatogenesis.

• Immune & Paracrine Modulation: Regulates uterine natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, and regulatory T cells to promote localized angiogenesis and immune tolerance mechanisms.

Primary Research Applications

hCG is a premier compound for in vitro and animal model studies investigating:

• Reproductive Endocrinology and Oocyte Maturation Pathways

• Leydig Cell Testosterone Production and Hypogonadism Models

• Placental Biology, Trophoblast Invasion, and Cellular Angiogenesis

• Oncology Tracking (Trophoblastic disease and malignant immune evasion)

• Endometrial Receptivity and Macrophage/T-Cell Immune Tolerance

Storage & Handling

For optimal long-term stability and structural integrity, store lyophilized powder securely at -4°F (-20°C). Reconstituted solutions should be strictly refrigerated at 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C) and utilized within defined lab-specific timelines. Repeated freeze-thaw cycles must be avoided to prevent degradation of the glycosylated subunits.

⚠️ Important Disclaimer for Carbon Nova Labs Customers: All information provided is for educational and reference purposes only. hCG is sold strictly for laboratory research and development use only. This compound is not approved by the FDA for human consumption, therapeutic use, or clinical application. Ensure compliance with all institutional safety protocols and consult qualified professionals before conducting research.