A novel perspective on the role of human chorionic gonadotropin during pregnancy and in gestational trophoblastic disease.
We have discussed recent new findings on the presence and function of hCG/LH receptors in non-gonadal tissues with particular emphasis on the placenta. These findings support the hypothesis that hCG plays a broader role throughout pregnancy than previously believed. Since hCG is widely used in reproductive medicine, the possible impact of hCG treatment on non-gonadal tissues must be considered. In addition, the possible consequences of a relative excess or deficiency in hCG production or possible structural and functional defects in hCG and/or in its hCG receptors during pregnancy should be realized.
Rodway
M R
MR
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, KY 40292, USA.
Rao
C V
CV
D002822:Choriocarcinoma / Q000378:metabolism; D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010920:Placenta; D011247:Pregnancy / Q000502:physiology*; D011974:Receptors, LH / Q000502:physiology; D014328:Trophoblastic Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism*; D014327:Trophoblasts; D014594:Uterine Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism*
D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin; D011974:Receptors, LH