HCG

HCG is a synthetic research peptide, a glycoprotein hormone consisting of an alpha subunit (92 amino acids) and a unique beta subunit (145 amino acids) that confers biologic specificity. HCG peptide is produced by the chorionic tissue of the placenta and plays a critical role in maintaining the corpus luteum and stimulating steroid secretion during early gestation. This Glycoprotein hormone is widely studied in reproductive endocrinology for ovulation induction, superovulation protocols, and fertility research.

hCG exerts its effects by binding to and activating the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LH/CGR), a G protein-coupled receptor expressed primarily in the ovary and testis. As a full agonist of the LH receptor, hCG mimics the actions of endogenous luteinizing hormone (LH). Upon receptor binding, it activates the adenylate cyclase signaling pathway, increasing intracellular cAMP levels, which in turn stimulates steroidogenesis—the production of progesterone and testosterone. Unlike LH, hCG has a longer half-life and exhibits biased agonism at the LH/CG receptor, making it a valuable tool for studying gonadotropin receptor signaling.

• Reproductive Endocrinology: Investigated for ovulation induction, oocyte maturation, and corpus luteum support in fertility research.
• Superovulation Studies: Employed in preclinical models to induce superovulation in laboratory animals, including mice and rats, in combination with PMSG or eCG.
• Testosterone Research: Used to stimulate endogenous testosterone production and study Leydig cell function.
• Signal Transduction: Utilized as a ligand to probe LH receptor structure, function, and G protein-coupled receptor signaling pathways.

CAS Number: 9002-61-3
Molecular Weight: ~37.9 kDa (glycoprotein, ~31% carbohydrate by weight)
Structure: Heterodimer of α subunit (92 aa, ~14.9 kDa) and β subunit (145 aa, ~23 kDa)
Purity: ≥ 98% (batch-dependent; refer to Certificate of Analysis)
Form: Lyophilized powder
Storage: Store at ≤ -20°C in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture
Solubility: Soluble in water; also soluble in aqueous glycerol and glycols; insoluble in ethanol