What is HCG?
HCG is a glycoprotein hormone made of an alpha subunit and a beta subunit. It shares its alpha subunit with LH, FSH and TSH and acts at the LH/hCG receptor.
Key facts
- Compound class: Human chorionic gonadotropin glycoprotein
- Structure: Alpha and beta glycoprotein subunits
- Receptor target: LH/hCG receptor
- Form: Lyophilized powder
- Research area: Endocrine Research
In laboratory research
It is used in reproductive endocrinology research, Leydig cell and ovarian steroidogenesis models, and as an LH receptor reference agonist.
Related compounds
Within our endocrine research collection, this peptide is most often compared with PT-141, a melanocortin receptor agonist (bremelanotide), HMG, a human menopausal gonadotropin (FSH + LH) and IGF-1 LR3, a long R3 insulin like growth factor 1. Running related compounds side by side, with matched vehicle controls and the same assay conditions, makes it easier to attribute differences in a readout to the compound itself rather than to handling or batch effects.
GHRH analogs, ghrelin receptor agonists, growth factors and gonadotropins used in research on the hypothalamic pituitary axes. Single compounds and a ready combined blend, each supplied lyophilized with batch records.
Choosing a size
This peptide comes in 2 sizes. Smaller vials suit pilot experiments and method development, while larger vials lower the cost per unit for longer studies and replicate runs.
- 5000iu: $89.99, about $0.02 per IU
- 10000iu: $119.99, about $0.01 per IU
Moving from the 5000iu vial to the 10000iu vial reduces the cost per IU by roughly 33 percent. If a study needs several smaller aliquots, one larger vial reconstituted and divided under your lab protocol is often the most economical option.
Every size ships as a lyophilized powder in a sealed vial. Reconstitute with bacteriostatic water or, where an acidic diluent is recommended, acetic acid water.
Working with it in the laboratory
Allow the sealed vial to reach room temperature before opening. Add the diluent slowly down the side of the vial, then swirl gently until the lyophilized powder has fully dissolved. Most researchers use bacteriostatic water; use acetic acid water only where the data for your compound calls for an acidic diluent.
Label the vial with the concentration, the date and the batch number, then store it as described below. For long studies, dividing the solution into single use aliquots avoids repeated freeze and thaw cycles. Our peptide research guide includes a worked example for calculating concentration.
Storage and stability
Store sealed vials at -20 °C, protected from light, for long term stability. Allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening to prevent condensation. After reconstitution, keep the solution refrigerated and avoid repeated freeze and thaw cycles.
Batch documentation
Every lot carries a batch number that links it to a certificate of analysis recording identity by mass spectrometry and purity by HPLC. Request the COA for your batch at any time, and keep it with your lab records alongside the concentration and date of reconstitution.
Research use only
This peptide is sold strictly for in vitro and preclinical laboratory research. It is not a drug, food, dietary supplement or cosmetic, it has not been approved for any human or veterinary use, and it must not be administered to people or animals. Researchers are responsible for following the rules of their institution and country. Read our full research use disclaimer.
Related research compounds
Browse all growth hormone and endocrine research peptides or see the peptide research guide for storage and reconstitution basics.
