Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG) is known to be caused by the central sensitization of the sensory nervous system. This originates from the vomiting zone, also known as the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ) in the medulla oblongata, in the brainstem.
Dr. Fenglin Chen has discovered that the hormone Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is closely related to the occurrence of Hyperemesis Gravidarum, where it binds with abnormally abundant chemoreceptors in the CTZ, which leads to the central sensitization, causing hypersensitivity of the sensory system, and also the constant stimulation of M1 (muscarinic acetylcholine 1 receptors) receptors in the body (commonly found in smooth muscles of the lungs, stomachs, intestines, salivary gland, etc), leading to symptoms such as insomnia, hypersensitivity to light, excessive vomiting, salivation, electrolyte imbalance, etc.
In this article, we will focus on the HCG molecule and discuss its molecular structure. HCG is a glycoprotein hormone that is secreted by trophoblast cells of the placenta. Although it has many functions that are still poorly understood, HCG primarily is responsible for the stimulation of the growth & development of the corpus luteum. A well-developed corpus luteum will secret optimal levels of progesterone, which in turn promotes the growth of the placenta and controls the sensitivity of the uterine smooth muscle, all of which is crucial for the maintenance of a healthy, full-term pregnancy.
HCG is composed of 244 amino groups with a molecular weight of 36.7kDa and a size of 7.5×3.5×3 nanometers. It is a heterodimer: its α-subunit is composed of 92 amino acids, and its structure closely resembles that of Luteinizing Hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The β-subunit contains 145 amino acids, and its structure is unique to HCG.
Dr. Fenglin Chen proposes that HCG is binding with these M1 receptors found on nerve cells, playing an excitatory role. These M1 receptors are mainly found distributed in the posterior sympathetic ganglion nerves and gastric wall cells, and when stimulated, cause excitability and gastric acid secretion. In conclusion, the pathophysiological basis of whether someone will or has developed HG depends closely on the distribution and amount of M1 receptors in the individual itself. Although HCG is the trigger hormone, it is not the direct cause of HCG, is instead
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