Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) Facts

What is hCG?

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG) is a naturally occurring glycoprotein hormone produced primarily by the placenta during pregnancy. It plays an essential role in maintaining pregnancy by supporting the corpus luteum, which produces progesterone during early gestation.

Because hCG has a molecular structure similar to Luteinizing Hormone (LH), it can bind to LH receptors and stimulate hormone production in the gonads. This has made hCG an important subject of research in reproductive biology and endocrinology.

Basic Information

• Hormone Class: Glycoprotein hormone
• Naturally Occurring: Yes
• Source: Produced by placental trophoblast cells during pregnancy
• Administration: Typically administered by subcutaneous or intramuscular injection
• Primary Target: Luteinizing Hormone (LH) receptors
• Biological Function: Stimulates production of sex hormones in the testes and ovaries

Mechanism of Action

hCG binds to LH receptors located in the testes and ovaries.

In males, activation of these receptors stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone.

In females, hCG supports the corpus luteum, helping maintain progesterone production during early pregnancy.

Because hCG closely mimics LH, it is frequently used as a research tool for studying reproductive hormone regulation.

Areas of Research

Researchers have investigated hCG for its potential effects on:

Reproductive Endocrinology

Research has examined hCG's role in:

• Gonadal hormone production
• Fertility
• Ovulation
• Reproductive physiology

Testosterone Production

In males, hCG has been studied for its ability to stimulate endogenous testosterone production through activation of LH receptors.

Researchers have investigated:

• Testosterone synthesis
• Leydig cell function
• Testicular hormone regulation

Spermatogenesis

Because intratesticular testosterone is important for sperm production, researchers have investigated whether hCG influences:

• Spermatogenesis
• Testicular function
• Male reproductive physiology

Assisted Reproductive Technology

hCG has been widely studied in fertility research for its role in:

• Triggering ovulation
• Supporting luteal function
• Assisted reproductive procedures

Endocrine Research

Researchers continue to investigate how hCG influences:

• Hormonal feedback systems
• Gonadal function
• Steroid hormone production
• Reproductive signaling pathways

Human Research

Unlike many research peptides, hCG has been extensively studied in humans for decades.

Clinical research has demonstrated its ability to:

• Activate LH receptors
• Stimulate testosterone production in males
• Trigger ovulation in females
• Support reproductive hormone function in specific clinical settings

Because of this extensive research history, hCG has one of the largest bodies of human evidence among hormones used in reproductive medicine.

Research Use Only: This product is intended exclusively for laboratory and scientific research by qualified professionals. It is not intended for human or veterinary use, diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. Handle and store in accordance with applicable laboratory safety procedures.