Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is a glycoprotein, which is secreted in large quantities by normal trophoblasts. It is present only in trace amounts in non-pregnant urine and sera but rises sharply during pregnancy. HCG is composed of two non-identical, non-covalently linked polypeptide chains designated as the a-and b-subunits. The a-subunit of HCG is nearly identical to that of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). A germ cell tumor which is positive for cytokeratin, placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP), and HCG but negative for EMA and AFP is probably a choriocarcinoma.
Applications:
Suitable for use in solid-phase immunoassay for specific determinations of hCG. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution:
Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability:
May be stored at 4 degrees C for short-term only. For long-term storage and to avoid repeated freezing and thawing, aliquot and store at -20 degrees C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months at -20 degrees C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.