Chemical information

CAS — 9002-69-1.


Relaxin is a polypeptide hormone that has been extracted from the corpus luteum of the ovaries of pregnant sows, although a human recombinant form is also now available. It is reported to be related structurally to insulin and has a molecular weight of about 6000. Relaxin is secreted by the human corpus luteum during pregnancy and is thought to interact with other reproductive hormones. It acts on connective tissue, including collagen, and causes relaxation of the pubic symphysis and softening of the uterine cervix. In many animal species relaxin appears to play a major part in cervical ripening before parturition; significant species difference is shown. It has been studied for cervical ripening in humans. Recombinant human relaxin has also been investigated in infertility, cardiovascular disorders, and scleroderma.
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Published May 08, 2019.