Human Chorionic Gonadotropin: "The Magic Molecule"

hCG is a glycoprotein molecule composed of two dissimilar subunits, alpha(�±) and beta(�) subunits, linked together with hydrogen and disulphide bonds. All cells produce hCG. However hCG molecule secreted by the placenta has a longer half life, owing to the glycosylation of its �-subunit. The only definitely known function of hCG, is to support the corpus luteum of pregnancy. Uses of hCG include diagnosis of normal as well as nonviable, ectopic and molar pregnancy, as a tumor marker and for aneuploidy screening, while for therapy it is used in various steps of assisted conception, recurrent or threatened abortion, preterm labor and as antifertility vaccine. Many more areas are yet to be explored, where this enigmatic molecule has the capacity to do wonders.