Chorionic somatomammotropin hormone 1 (CSH1)

Chorionic somatomammotropin hormone 1, also known as human placental lactogen (hPL) or human chorionic somatomammotropin (hCS), is a peptide hormone produced by the syncytiotrophoblasts of the placenta and is present only during pregnancy[1][3][7]. It is closely related in structure to growth hormone and prolactin, belonging to the somatotropin/prolactin family of hormones. hPL modifies maternal metabolism to facilitate energy supply to the fetus by reducing maternal insulin sensitivity (increasing maternal glucose availability) and promoting lipolysis, ensuring nutrient delivery to the growing fetus[2][3][6]. It also stimulates mammary gland development and lactation. Mutations or deficiencies can result in placental dysfunction and fetal growth disorders such as Silver-Russell syndrome[1][4][5]. hPL is primarily an endogenous marker of placental function and is not regarded as a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or drug target in therapeutic contexts.

Other names

Human placental lactogen (hPL)Human chorionic somatomammotropin (hCS)Chorionic somatomammotropinHuman chorionic somatotropinPlacental lactogen

Not directly targeted by drugs; biological activity is via activation of prolactin receptor (PRLR), and weak activity at the growth hormone receptor (GHR)