Question

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is produced by ________.

		the follicle
		the corpus luteum
		the embryo prior to implantation
		the embryo after implantation
		the placenta

Answer 1

Human chorionic gonadotropin (hcG) is produced by the placenta by the syncytiotrophoblast. Blood or urine test measure hcG. this is called pregnancy test. hcG positive test indicates an implanted blastocyst.

hcG is a glycoprotein made up of 237 amino acids. Molecular weight is 36.7kDa.It is heterodimeric, have 2 subunit alpha and beta. alpha subunit is identical to LH (Luteinizing hormone), FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone), and TSH (Thyroid stimulating horomone) and beta subunit is unique.

hcG promotes the maintenance of the corpus luteum during the beginning of pregnancy. hcG allow the corpus luteum to secrete progesterone hormone during the first trimester.