Home
Articles
Q&A

What is serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)?

May 14, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
Serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) prolongs the lifespan of the menstrual corpus luteum, causing it to enlarge and transform into the corpus luteum of pregnancy. It stimulates the conversion of androgens to estrogens and promotes progesterone synthesis. Additionally, hCG binds to the surface of trophoblastic cells, protecting embryonic trophoblasts from attack by maternal lymphocytes. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), a glycoprotein, is secreted by the trophoblastic cells of the placenta.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein secreted by the trophoblastic cells of the placenta and possesses both follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)-like and luteinizing hormone (LH)-like activities. Then, what exactly is serum human chorionic gonadotropin?

What Is Serum Human Chorionic Gonadotropin?

Serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) prolongs the lifespan of the menstrual corpus luteum, causing it to enlarge and transform into the corpus luteum of pregnancy (pregnancy corpus luteum). It stimulates the conversion of androgens into estrogens and promotes progesterone synthesis. Additionally, hCG binds to the surface of trophoblastic cells, thereby protecting embryonic trophoblasts from attack by maternal lymphocytes. Furthermore, hCG exhibits LH-like activity and can bind to thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptors on maternal thyroid cells, thereby stimulating thyroid activity.

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), commonly abbreviated as hCG, is a glycoprotein secreted by the trophoblastic cells of the placenta. After fertilization in females, the ovum migrates to the uterine cavity and implants, forming an embryo. As the embryo develops into a fetus, syncytiotrophoblast cells of the placenta produce large amounts of hCG, which enters the maternal bloodstream and is subsequently excreted into the urine. Serum and urinary hCG levels begin rising rapidly within 1–2.5 weeks after conception, peak at approximately 8 weeks of gestation, decline to moderate levels starting in the fourth month of pregnancy, and remain stable at this level until term.

The primary physiological functions of human chorionic gonadotropin include ensuring adequate blood supply, nutrition, and metabolic support for the embryo and fetus; protecting the embryo from maternal immune rejection; promoting follicular maturation; and maintaining pregnancy. We hope this explanation has been helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!

Related Articles

View All
What are the side effects of intravenous human albumin?
Side effects of human serum albumin infusion may include allergic reactions, cardiovascular abnormalities, gastrointestinal discomfort, hematological system effects, and fluctuations in kidney function. If severe discomfort occurs during or after the infusion, medical personnel should be informed immediately and prompt medical attention is required. Allergic reactions: Manifestations include rash, itching, and erythema; in severe cases, it may lead to...
avatar
Dr. Li Feng
View Full Answer
What diseases can be diagnosed by measuring serum folate and vitamin B12 levels?
Serum folate and vitamin B12 measurements can assist in the diagnosis of megaloblastic anemia, neurological disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, metabolic abnormalities, and screening for malignancies. Abnormal test results require prompt medical evaluation to determine the underlying cause. Deficiency of folate or vitamin B12 can lead to impaired red blood cell production, manifesting as macrocytic anemia.
avatar
Dr. Li Feng
View Full Answer
Can serum urea concentration levels be used to assess liver function?
Serum urea concentration is generally not used directly to assess liver function, but in specific circumstances, it can serve as an auxiliary reference indicator for abnormal liver function. To maintain healthy liver and kidney function, one should start with diet and daily habits. Maintain a balanced protein intake, avoiding both excess and deficiency, and consume more high-quality protein, fresh fruits, and vegetables. Follow a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late to allow the liver sufficient time for repair.
avatar
Dr. Gao Jun
View Full Answer
What does it mean when serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) is high, and what should be done?
In general, elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels may be caused by intense physical exercise, staying up late, excessive alcohol consumption, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, viral hepatitis, drug-induced liver injury, and other factors. Appropriate measures can be taken based on the specific situation to improve the condition. Establish regular sleep habits and avoid excessive fatigue; maintain a balanced diet, reduce intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods, and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables.
avatar
Dr. Gao Jun
View Full Answer
Is a pregnant woman's alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level of 80 serious?
If a pregnant woman has no history of liver disease and does not present symptoms such as jaundice, fatigue, nausea, or vomiting, and ultrasound shows normal liver structure, an alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level of 80 U/L is mostly due to physiological elevation during pregnancy. Hormonal changes and increased metabolic burden on the liver in pregnancy may lead to mild fluctuations in transaminase levels, which usually require no special treatment and tend to resolve spontaneously after delivery.
avatar
Dr. Zhang Lu
View Full Answer
How to Use Rabies Vaccine and Anti-Rabies Serum
When using rabies vaccine and antirabies serum, the following procedures should be followed: perform an allergy test in advance, inject according to the specified dosage, select the correct injection site, use in combination with the rabies vaccine, and monitor post-injection reactions. Before administration, draw a small amount of serum and perform an intradermal injection on the inner side of the recipient's forearm, then observe for 20 minutes. If there is no abnormal reaction such as redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site, the serum may be used normally.
avatar
Dr. Liu Wenmin
View Full Answer
What can elevated serum transaminases indicate?
Elevated serum transaminases may indicate hepatocellular injury, liver inflammation, abnormalities of the biliary system, drug or toxin exposure, or diseases of other organs. Transaminases are important markers of liver function, and their elevation generally correlates with the extent of liver damage. If transaminase levels remain elevated more than three times the upper limit of normal, or if symptoms such as jaundice or abdominal pain develop, prompt medical evaluation is recommended.
avatar
Dr. Gao Jun
View Full Answer
Is elevated serum fibronectin related to taking antidepressant medications?
Elevated serum fibronectin is not directly associated with taking antidepressant medications. Increased levels of this marker are more commonly related to inflammatory responses, tissue injury and repair, or liver diseases. Antidepressants primarily work by regulating neurotransmitters and do not directly cause elevated fibronectin levels. If the indicator remains persistently high or is accompanied by discomfort symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to identify the underlying cause.
avatar
Dr. Zhang Baohua
View Full Answer
彩牛养生

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.