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 in ELISA. Suitable for use in very sensitive and specific gold or latex based single step assay. Other applications have not been tested. Recommended Dilutions: Optimal dilutions to be determined by researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4C. For long-term storage, aliquot and store at 4C. Do not freeze. Aliquots are stable for 12 months after receipt. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer. Gold conjugates are light sensitive.
