hCG beta is the beta chain of hCG (Human chorionic gonadotropin), a 40kD glycoprotein hormone produced by trophoblastic cells of the placenta beginning 10 to 12 days after conception. hCG is made up of alpha and beta subunits that are non-covalently associated. The alpha subunit is similar to those found on the pituitary hormones FSH, LH ans TSH. However, the beta subunit is different in FSH, LH and TSH and are involved in conferring biological specificity. Maintenance of the fetus in the first trimester of pregnancy requires the production of hCG, which binds to the corpus luteum of the ovary which is stimulated to produce progesterone which in turn maintains the secretory endometrium. hCG 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 alpha and Beta subunits. The alpha subunit is identical to that of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Diseases associated with Hcg dysfunction include gestational trophoblastic tumor and hydatidiform mole, recurrent 1. Applications: Suitable for use in ELISA, Immunoflourescence and Immunohistochemistry. Not suitable for use in RIA. Other applications not tested. Recommended Dilution: Immunohistochemistry (Frozen, paraffin): 1:5-1:25 diluted in PBS. Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4C for short-term only. Aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing. Store at -20C. Aliquots are stable for 12 months after receipt. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.
