This gene is a member of the glycoprotein hormone beta chain family and encodes the beta 3 subunit of chorionic gonadotropin (CG). Glycoprotein hormones are heterodimers consisting of a common alpha subunit and an unique beta subunit which confers biological specificity. CG is produced by the trophoblastic cells of the placenta and stimulates the ovaries to synthesize the steroids that are essential for the maintenance of pregnancy. The beta subunit of CG is encoded by 6 genes which are arranged in tandem and inverted pairs on chromosome 19q13.3 and contiguous with the luteinizing hormone beta subunit gene. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008],developmental stage:Made by the first trimester placenta.,function:Stimulates the ovaries to synthesize the steroids that are essential for the maintenance of pregnancy.,online information:Chorionic gonadotropin entry,pharmaceutical:Available under the names Novarel (Ferring) and Profasi (Serono). Used as adjunctive therapy in the treatment of obesity. There is no substantial evidence that it increases weight loss beyond that resulting from caloric restriction, that it causes a more attractive or normal distribution of fat, or that it decreases the hunger and discomfort associated with calorie-restricted diets.,similarity:Belongs to the glycoprotein hormones subunit beta family.,subunit:Heterodimer of a common alpha chain and a unique beta chain which confers biological specificity to thyrotropin, lutropin, follitropin and gonadotropin.,tissue specificity:Placenta.,
