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. Other applications not tested.
Recommended Dilution
Optimal dilution determined by the researcher.
Storage and Stability
Store product at 4°C if to be used immediately within two weeks. For long-term storage, aliquot to avoid repeated freezing and thawing and store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable at -20°C for 12 months after receipt. Dilute required amount only prior to immediate use. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer. Note: Sodium azide is a potent inhibitor of peroxidase and should not be added to HRP conjugates. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap.
Note: Applications are based on unconjugated antibody.
Immunogen
Purified Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, alpha
Form
Supplied as a liquid in PBS, pH 7.2. No preservative added. Labeled with horseradish peroxidase (HRP).
Purity
Purified by affinity chromatography.
Specificity
Recognizes hCGa: 100%. Alpha specific, reacts with LH, hCG, FSH and prolactin.