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Updated: Oct 3, 2025

Single Cell Collection of Trophoblast Cells in Peri-implantation Stage Human Embryos
Published on: June 12, 2020
Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Early Embryogenesis: Review
Sophie Perrier d'Hauterive1,2, Romann Close3, Virginie Gridelet1
1Center for Assisted Medical Procreation-ULiège, Site du CHR de la Citadelle, University of Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium.
Abstract:
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) has four major isoforms: classical hCG, hyperglycosylated hCG, free β subunit, and sulphated hCG. Classical hCG is the first molecule synthesized by the embryo. Its RNA is transcribed as early as the eight-cell stage and the blastocyst produces the protein before its implantation. This review synthetizes everything currently known on this multi-effect hormone: hCG levels, angiogenetic activity, immunological actions, and effects on miscarriages and thyroid function.
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