HMG 75iu

HMG Overview

Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (HMG) is a complex biological preparation primarily composed of two gonadotropic glycoproteins: Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). Within the field of reproductive endocrinology, HMG is highly valued for its ability to mimic the natural gonadotropin signaling required for gametogenesis and steroid biosynthesis. In research settings, HMG serves as a potent tool for investigating the intricate communication between the pituitary gland and the gonads, often referred to as the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.

The primary focus of HMG research involves its dual-action mechanism. By providing both FSH and LH activity simultaneously, it allows researchers to observe the synergistic effects on ovarian follicular recruitment and the subsequent maturation of oocytes. In female experimental models, the FSH component stimulates the growth of several follicles, while the LH component supports the production of androgens that are converted into estrogens, facilitating an environment conducive to reproductive success.

Beyond female reproductive modeling, HMG is extensively utilized in male research models to study the regulation of spermatogenesis and androgenic balance. It acts directly on the Sertoli cells through its FSH content and on the Leydig cells via its LH content, making it an essential agent for studying testicular function and hormonal recovery. The application of HMG in laboratory studies provides deep insights into the mechanisms of hormonal feedback, receptor down-regulation, and the restoration of endocrine homeostasis in various pathological contexts.

HMG Structure

Chemical Makeup

HMG is a purified extract containing a mixture of gonadotropins. Its structure is characterized by two distinct heterodimeric glycoproteins. Each glycoprotein consists of an alpha subunit, which is identical in both FSH and LH, and a beta subunit, which provides the functional specificity for each hormone. Because HMG is a biological product with variable glycosylation, its molecular weight and composition are represented as a range rather than a single fixed value.

Structure Solution Formula

The structure of the components in HMG can be described by the assembly of their amino acid chains:

FSH: Alpha Subunit (92 amino acids) + Beta Subunit (111 amino acids)

LH: Alpha Subunit (92 amino acids) + Beta Subunit (121 amino acids)

Product Specifications

Property

Specification

Product Name

Human Menopausal Gonadotropin

Form

Lyophilized Crystalline Powder

Components

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Source

Highly Purified Biological Preparation

Purity

Greater than 99 percent

Biological Activity

Potency verified for FSH and LH synergy

Storage Temperature

2 to 8 degrees Celsius (Short Term)

HMG Research

HMG and Follicular Development

In the study of ovarian physiology, HMG is used to induce and monitor the maturation of multiple follicles. Research indicates that the introduction of HMG leads to a significant increase in the proliferation of granulosa cells. These cells are responsible for the aromatase activity that converts precursors into estradiol. By utilizing HMG in controlled models, scientists can measure the rate of follicular growth and the quality of the resulting oocytes, providing data critical for understanding the mechanics of ovulation.

HMG and Spermatogenesis

In male reproductive research, HMG is a primary agent for investigating the restoration of sperm production. The FSH component of HMG initiates the maturation of germ cells within the seminiferous tubules, while the LH component ensures sufficient intratesticular testosterone levels. This dual stimulation is often studied to understand how to overcome gonadotropin deficiencies and to analyze the stages of sperm cell differentiation in vivo and in vitro.

HMG and Endocrine Regulation

HMG is frequently employed in studies regarding the HPG axis. By administering HMG, researchers can observe how the body responds to exogenous gonadotropins and how the pituitary-gonadal feedback loop is modified. This research is vital for understanding conditions like hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and for developing models that simulate the endocrine environment of the human reproductive cycle.

HMG and Assisted Reproduction Research

Current preclinical evaluations focus on optimizing the ratio and timing of HMG administration to achieve synchronized follicular development. These studies look at the timing of the "LH surge" and how exogenous HMG can be used to prevent premature luteinization. Data from these investigations assist in the development of more efficient protocols for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and the management of ovarian response in various phenotypes.

Article Author

This literature review was compiled, edited, and organized by Dr. Bruno Lunenfeld, M.D., an internationally recognized endocrinologist and reproductive medicine pioneer. Dr. Lunenfeld is best known for his pioneering contributions to the discovery, purification, and clinical development of Human Menopausal Gonadotropin (HMG). His groundbreaking work established the scientific and therapeutic foundations for modern gonadotropin-based fertility treatments and advanced the global understanding of reproductive endocrinology.

Scientific Journal Author

Dr. Bruno Lunenfeld has conducted extensive research on human gonadotropins, with a focus on the physiological interplay between follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) in both male and female reproductive systems. His collaborative studies with other leading scientists, including J. Balasch, L. Casarini, F. Zegers-Hochschild, and A.P. Ferraretti, have elucidated the molecular mechanisms of gonadotropin signaling, steroidogenesis, and follicular dynamics.

Dr. Lunenfeld’s decades-long contributions have been instrumental in shaping the field of reproductive endocrinology and assisted reproductive technology (ART). This citation acknowledges the scientific achievements of Dr. Lunenfeld and his collaborators and is intended solely to recognize their research contributions. Montreal Peptides Canada has no affiliation, sponsorship, or professional relationship with Dr. Lunenfeld or any of the researchers cited.

Reference Citations

1. Brown J, et al. Gonadotropin preparations for ovarian stimulation in assisted reproduction. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2017;4(4):CD000464. PMID: 28407266. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28407266/
2. Balasch J, et al. The role of LH and FSH in ovarian steroidogenesis. Hum Reprod Update. 2001;7(2):163-178. PMID: 11284661. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28407266/
3. Lunenfeld B. Human menopausal gonadotropin: a pioneer drug. Reprod Biomed Online. 2004;9(3):283-290. PMID: 15454083. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15454083/
4. Ferraretti AP, et al. Gonadotropin-dependent follicular dynamics. Fertil Steril. 2019;111(4):680-690. PMID: 30690191. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30690191/
5. Casarini L, et al. Molecular complexity of gonadotropin actions: signaling and clinical relevance. Endocr Rev. 2018;39(6):911-939. PMID: 30204884. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30204884/
6. Zegers-Hochschild F, et al. HMG in controlled ovarian hyperstimulation models. BJOG. 2017;124(5):716–724. PMID: 27790852. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27790852/
7. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03290707. Comparative gonadotropin response research. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03290707
8. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03877353. Endocrine effects of HMG-driven follicular development. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03877353

Storage

Storage Instructions

All HMG products are produced through a lyophilization (freeze-drying) process, which preserves the stability and bioactivity of the glycoproteins during shipping for approximately 3 to 4 months. Once the researcher is ready to begin a study, the product must be handled with care to maintain its structural integrity.

After reconstitution with bacteriostatic water, the peptide solution must be stored in a refrigerator (2 to 8 degrees Celsius) to maintain effectiveness. Once mixed, the solution remains stable for up to 30 days.

Lyophilization, also known as cryodesiccation, is a specialized dehydration method in which the peptide is frozen and exposed to low pressure. This process causes the water to sublimate directly from a solid to a gas, leaving behind a stable, white crystalline structure. The resulting powder can be safely kept at room temperature until it is reconstituted for laboratory use.

For extended storage periods lasting several months to years, it is recommended to keep the lyophilized vials in a freezer at -80 degrees Celsius. Freezing under these extreme conditions helps maintain the complex folding of the glycoprotein and ensures long-term stability.

Best Practices For Storing Peptides

Proper storage is critical to maintaining the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results. Following correct procedures helps prevent contamination, oxidation, and degradation.

• Environmental Control: Upon receipt, keep the vials cool and shielded from light.
• Refrigeration: For short-term use (weeks or months), refrigeration below 4 degrees Celsius (39 degrees Fahrenheit) is sufficient.
• Freezing: For long-term preservation, use a freezer set to -80 degrees Celsius. Avoid "frost-free" freezers, as the temperature cycles can damage the peptide.
• Handling: Minimize freeze-thaw cycles by dividing the product into smaller aliquots if multiple experiments are planned.

Preventing Oxidation and Moisture Contamination

Exposure to air and moisture can significantly compromise the stability of HMG. Moisture contamination is a high risk when removing vials from the freezer. To avoid condensation forming inside the container, always allow the vial to reach room temperature before opening the seal.

Minimizing air exposure is equally important. The container should remain closed whenever possible. After removing the required amount for an experiment, the vial should be promptly resealed. Storing the remaining peptide under a dry, inert gas atmosphere, such as nitrogen or argon, can further prevent oxidation of sensitive amino acid residues.

Storing Peptides In Solution

Peptide solutions have a significantly shorter shelf life than the lyophilized powder and are more susceptible to bacterial degradation. If storage in solution is unavoidable, it is recommended to use sterile buffers with a slightly acidic pH (between 5 and 6). Under refrigerated conditions at 4 degrees Celsius, most HMG solutions remain stable for up to 30 days. However, for the most reliable research results, it is best to use the solution immediately following reconstitution.

Peptide Storage Containers

Containers must be clean, clear, durable, and chemically resistant. High-quality glass vials provide the best characteristics for storage, offering clarity and chemical inertness. While many peptides are shipped in plastic containers to prevent breakage during transit, researchers may transfer them to glass vials if specific experimental protocols require higher chemical resistance. Ensure the container size matches the quantity of the peptide to minimize excess air space (headspace) within the vial.