Human Chorionic Gonadotropin: The Pregnancy Hormone and More

• Main Authors: Charalampos Theofanakis, Petros Drakakis, Alexandros Besharat, Dimitrios Loutradis
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2017-05-01
• Series: International Journal of Molecular Sciences
• Subjects: hCG; LH/CGR; ovulation induction; oocyte maturation; endometrial synchrony; immunization
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/18/5/1059

To thoroughly review the uses of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) related to the process of reproduction and also assess new, non-traditional theories. Review of the international literature and research studies. hCG and its receptor, LH/CGR, are expressed in numerous sites of the reproductive tract, both in gonadal and extra-goanadal tissues, promoting oocyte maturation, fertilization, implantation and early embryo development. Moreover, hCG seems to have a potential role as an anti-rejection agent in solid organ transplantation. Future research needs to focus extensively on the functions of hCG and its receptor LH/CGR, in an effort to reveal known, as well as unknown clinical potentials.