HCG (5000 IU)

HCG is a glycoprotein hormone that plays a natural role in pregnancy. The interest in research into it stems mainly from its similarity to luteinising hormone (LH).

Mechanism of action under investigation

Because HCG is very similar to LH, it is being studied as a molecule that binds to the same receptors within the HPG axis — the signalling pathway between the hypothalamus, pituitary gland and gonads. In this context, research is being carried out into, amongst other things, the regulation of testosterone. This makes HCG a widely used tool for mapping the functioning of the reproductive axis.

This description relates to the mechanism of action as studied in research and does not constitute evidence of efficacy in humans.

HCG consists of two subunits; the beta subunit is characteristic of the hormone, whilst the whole molecule is functionally very similar to LH. It is precisely this similarity that leads researchers to use HCG to mimic and study LH-like signalling in the HPG axis. As a glycoprotein, it is also a well-characterised, widely used reference molecule. This clear, well-studied biology makes HCG a valuable model in endocrine research.

HCG is used in endocrinological research to study the HPG axis, precisely because of its LH-like action.

• Research focus: detection within the HPG axis.
• Research focus: regulation of testosterone (preclinical).
• Research focus: mechanisms relating to fertility.

Status and context

HCG is a hormone recognised in medicine, but it is offered here solely as research material, for laboratory and research purposes — not as a medicinal product and not for consumption. In the context of sport, HCG is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) Prohibited List. When conducting research, always document the purity and batch number, and handle this hormonal material with care.

In endocrine research, the HPG axis is a classic and complex system in which feedback between the three levels plays a central role. HCG offers a way to intervene specifically at a single point in that chain. A pure starting material, documented on a batch-by-batch basis, is important in this context, particularly when dealing with a hormonal molecule. Proceed with care and in a standardised manner, in keeping with the ‘research-only’ status of the material.

HCG is supplied as a lyophilised powder and reconstituted in the laboratory using bacteriostatic water. The steps below describe only the laboratory procedures for testing.

1. 1Allow the vial and the bacteriostatic water to reach room temperature.
2. 2Wipe the rubber stoppers of both vials with an alcohol wipe.
3. 3Allow the bacteriostatic water to run slowly down the side of the vial; do not direct it straight onto the powder.
4. 4Gently swirl the vial until everything has dissolved; do not shake.
5. 5Store the solution in the fridge and label it with the date and batch number.

You can find supplies such as bacteriostatic water, insulin syringes and alcohol wipes under ‘Lab & Accessories’. This is laboratory guidance and is expressly not intended as advice on use or dosage.

A rigorous research context

As HCG is a hormonal molecule that interacts with a broad regulatory system, it should be handled in a controlled research environment. Work to standardised procedures and document the method, concentration and batch number for each experiment.

Work to standardised procedures and ensure that preparations are consistent. Check the solution for clarity before use and handle hormonal research materials with care. Prepare only what you need in the short term and store the rest in a cool place.

Store HCG in lyophilised (powder) form in a cool, dark place to ensure maximum stability.

Practical storage tips

• Powder form: freezer (-20 °C) for long-term storage; fridge (2–8 °C) for short-term storage.
• After reconstitution: store refrigerated (2–8 °C) and use within a few weeks.
• Avoid direct light, heat and repeated temperature changes.
• Write the reconstitution date and batch number on the vial.

Consistent, cold and dark storage ensures reliable, reproducible measurement results across experiments.

Consistent, cold storage ensures reliable, reproducible measurement results; hormonal material is sensitive to heat. Check the solution for clarity before use.