Anti-Chorionic Gonadotropin, human, beta (hCGb)

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 RIA. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: Optimal dilution determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. For long-term storage and to avoid repeated freezing and thawing, add sterile glycerol (40-50%), aliquot and store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months at -20°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.