Description
This antibody reacts with a protein of 22kDa, identified as beta subunit of HCG. It does not cross react with the alpha subunit. HCG is a glycoprotein which is secreted in large quantities by normal trophoblasts. It is present only in trace amounts in non-pregnant urine and sera but rises sharply during pregnancy. HCG is composed of two non-identical, non-covalently linked polypeptide chains designated as the alpha and beta subunits. The alpha subunit is identical to that of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH). HCG-beta antibody detects cells and tumors of trophoblastic origin such as choriocarcinoma. Large cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma of the lung demonstrate antibody positivity in 90% and 60% of cases respectively; 20% of lung squamous cell carcinomas are positive. HCG expression by non-trophoblastic tumors may indicate aggressive behavior