HCG

What is Human Chorionic Gonadotropin?

HCG is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone composed of alpha and beta subunits. While its alpha subunit is structurally similar to that of LH, FSH, and TSH, the beta subunit is unique and confers its specific biological activity. In research, HCG is commonly used to model luteinizing hormone activity, especially in reproductive endocrinology studies [2].

Molecular Formula and Structure

• Molecular Formula: C₁₁₀₄H₁₇₇₄N₃₁₄₈O₃₃₆₄S₂₆
• Molecular Weight: ~25.7 kDa

HCG consists of 237 amino acids, forming a complex glycoprotein capable of binding to LH receptors to mimic or enhance luteinizing hormone activity [3].

HCG Research

1. Ovulation Induction in ART

HCG is widely used in assisted reproductive technology (ART) research to induce final oocyte maturation before retrieval. Studies comparing 5000 IU to 10,000 IU doses have found that both are effective, with lower doses potentially reducing the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) [4].

2. Influence on Male Body Composition

Research involving elderly men has shown that administration of 5000 IU HCG twice weekly for three months improved lean body mass and reduced fat mass, suggesting HCG’s potential in metabolic and androgenic regulation studies [5].

3. Treatment of Hypogonadism in Males

HCG has been evaluated for its ability to stimulate endogenous testosterone production in males with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Studies demonstrate improvements in testosterone levels and fertility markers following HCG therapy [6].

4. Recombinant vs. Urinary HCG Comparison

Comparative studies show that 5000 IU of urinary-derived HCG provides similar ovulatory efficacy to 250 μg of recombinant HCG, with both formulations achieving comparable clinical pregnancy rates in ART protocols [7].

5. Optimal Dosing in IVF Cycles

Clinical research has evaluated the effectiveness of varying HCG doses for triggering ovulation. A dose of 5000 IU has been found to be effective in women with normal BMI and low risk for OHSS, while offering a safer profile than higher doses [8].

Referenced Citations

1. Practice Committee of ASRM. Role of HCG in ART protocols. Fertil Steril. 2008. PMID: 18321467
2. Cole LA. HCG variants, functions, and clinical applications. Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2010;8:102. PMID: 20633300
3. PubChem. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) – CID 16129673
4. Vitek WS et al. Outcomes of lower-dose HCG for trigger in ART. Reprod Biomed Online. 2011;22(4):353–357. PMID: 21398186
5. Liu PY et al. HCG enhances muscle and fat metabolism in older men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2002;87(7):3125–3133. PMID: 12107222
6. Hall JE et al. HCG therapy in male hypogonadism. Andrology. 2022;10(3):533–541. PMID: 35118699
7. Fusi FM et al. Urinary vs recombinant HCG in IVF. Fertil Steril. 2003;80(2):372–377. PMID: 12893991
8. Kummer NE et al. HCG dose comparison in IVF. Fertil Steril. 2001;75(6):1111–1115. PMID: 11384634

Disclaimer

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