LHCGR Functional Assay

Luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) share a common transmembrane glycoprotein receptor in the body, identified as the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR). This receptor is widely expressed in male and female gonads, and its activation is closely related to physical growth, development, and reproduction. Creative Biolabs here provides tailored LHCGR functional assay using a branch range of approaches. Our seasoned scientists are always ready to offer first-class assistance to best facilitate our clients' research goals.

Important Functions of LHCGR

The genetic structure of LHCGR is similar to follicle-stimulating hormone receptors and thyrotropin receptors, and the activation of these receptors is also necessary for hormonal operation. The expression of LHCGR in follicular cells and granulosa cells is a necessary prerequisite for the progesterone, androstenedione, testosterone, and aromatization of androgen. The specific function of LHCGR varies with gender. In males, LHCGR controls fetal sex differentiation and stimulates the production of testosterone to promote pubertal development, male secondary sexual characteristics development, and spermatogenesis. The ovary is the core of the female reproductive system, which also serves as the target organ of the luteinizing hormone. The activation of LHCGR stimulates the release of the ovum from the ovary and induces the formation of cumulus cell-oocyte complexes, granulosa cell luteinization, and many other processes. Gonadotropin and its receptor-mediated pathways are generally considered to be the canonical G_αs/cAMP/PKA pathway, however, studies have also shown that LHCGR can also activate other pathways including G_αq, protein kinase, and ERK1 pathways.

Fig 1. Expression of LHCGR protein in the primary epithelial OC on TMAs, staining by representative LHR immunohistochemical reactivity stain patterns. (Xiong, et al., 2019)

LHCGR Functional Assay

LH and hCG function through binding to the LHCGR. Thus, the mRNA expression of LHCGR and the determination of hCG gene expression markers can reflect the LHCGR functions. C57 mice or Sprague-Dawley rats are ideal animal models for LHCGR studies after specific induction or gene treatment. In addition, several immunological, western blot, histological or molecular biological methods are also commonly used methods for quantitatively or qualitatively characterizing the expression and function of LHCGR in vivo or in vitro.

Fig 2. LHCGR expression and promoter methylation detection. (Kawai, et al., 2018)

LHCGR Functional Assay Services at Creative Biolabs

LHCGR plays an indispensable role in aspects of human physical growth, development, reproduction, and sex differentiation. At Creative Biolabs, we offer professional LHCGR functional assays by using validated cell lines stably expressing LHCGR and determining the biological activity of luteinizing hormone as well as the highly homologous chorionic gonadotropin by measuring the downstream cell products. In addition, commonly used animal models and immunology, molecular biology tests are also available. Thanks to our R&D team, we are confident to fulfill any of your needs.

If you want to decipher the mysteries of human physical growth and reproduction or to further advance your research, please do not hesitate to contact us.

References

1. Xiong, S.; et al. Expression of the luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) in ovarian cancer. BMC Cancer. 2019, 19: 1114.
2. Kawai, T.; et al. The cell type–specific expression of LHCGR in mouse ovarian cells: evidence for a DNA-demethylation–dependent mechanism. Endocrinology. 2018, 159(5): 2062-2074.