Discovery of gut microbe’s role in progesterone metabolism offers new fertility insights

Progesterone is a crucial hormone for successful embryo implantation and maintaining a normal pregnancy. Insufficient levels of progesterone are common contributors to IVF treatment failure and early miscarriage. In assisted reproductive treatment, progesterone is typically supplemented through various routes, including oral capsule, vaginal suppositories, or injections, to support luteal function or prepare endometrium for embryo transfer.

Discovery of Semliki Forest virus’s brain entry route opens new avenues for tumor treatment

In a recent study, researchers from Uppsala University have shown that the Semliki Forest virus enters the central nervous system by first entering the cerebrospinal fluid and then binding to a specific cell type before penetrating deeper into the brain. This finding could potentially be used to develop the Semliki Forest virus as an agent for treating brain cancer. The study has been published in Nature Communications.