Which tissue secretes human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)?

Which tissue secretes human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG)?

• A. Trophoblastic tissue
• B. Endometrial tissue
• C. Myometrium
• D. Decidua

Answer: (A)

HCG is secreted by trophoblastic tissue, the cells that form the outer layer of the developing placenta. After implantation, the syncytiotrophoblast (and the underlying cytotrophoblast) begin producing this hormone. Its main role early on is to rescue the corpus luteum, ensuring continued progesterone production to support the uterine lining until the placenta can take over hormone production. The other uterine tissues don’t produce HCG—endometrial tissue lines the uterus, the decidua is the maternal endometrium-derived tissue during pregnancy, and the myometrium is the muscular layer of the uterus.

HCG is secreted by trophoblastic tissue, the cells that form the outer layer of the developing placenta. After implantation, the syncytiotrophoblast (and the underlying cytotrophoblast) begin producing this hormone. Its main role early on is to rescue the corpus luteum, ensuring continued progesterone production to support the uterine lining until the placenta can take over hormone production. The other uterine tissues don’t produce HCG—endometrial tissue lines the uterus, the decidua is the maternal endometrium-derived tissue during pregnancy, and the myometrium is the muscular layer of the uterus.