Factor Determining Half-Life of Hormones
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Question (English)
The half-life of a hormone is directly proportional to its:
- Sialic acid content ✓ Correct
- Carnitine content
- Prostaglandin content
- Ascorbic acid content
Correct Answer: Sialic acid content
The half-life of glycoprotein hormones (like FSH, LH, hCG, PMSG) is directly proportional to their sialic acid (N-acetylneuraminic acid) content. Sialic acid residues on the carbohydrate side chains of these glycoprotein hormones protect them from degradation by liver enzymes, thereby prolonging their circulating half-life.
Sialic Acid Content vs. Half-Life (Correct Order)
- PMSG: Highest sialic acid → longest half-life (~6 days)
- hCG: High sialic acid → ~11 hours
- FSH: Moderate → ~170 minutes
- LH: Low sialic acid → ~60 minutes
- Oxytocin: Not a glycoprotein → shortest half-life (~2 minutes)
Practical Significance
The long half-life of PMSG (due to high sialic acid) is why a single injection can be used for superovulation. In contrast, LH's short half-life necessitates pulsatile or repeated administration for therapeutic purposes.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Refresher
This multiple choice question is from Animal Refresher, Animal Reproduction. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Refresher to strengthen your preparation.
