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A fish story with a human tell

Researchers used an ancient fish, elephant sharks, to gain insights into human biology and how a widely used medication works. The findings show that progesterone receptor activation in humans requires a different mix of hormones and steroids than in elephants sharks, with the latter not inhibited by RU486.

SourceUniversity of California - San Diego·JournalACS Pharmacology & Translational Science·DateFeb 17, 2022

Preterm birth, prolonged labor influenced by progesterone balance

A new study found that unbalanced progesterone signals may cause preterm labor or prolonged labor in pregnant women. The researchers used genetically engineered mouse models to alter the ratio of PGR-A and PGR-B signaling in the uterus, identifying key biological pathways influenced by both forms.

SourceNIH/National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 11, 2021

Women with Neandertal gene give birth to more children

Researchers found that women inheriting a Neandertal gene variant have lower rates of early miscarriages, fewer bleedings during pregnancy, and higher birth rates. The study suggests the variant has a favorable effect on fertility, with increased progesterone receptor production leading to greater sensitivity and protection.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalMolecular Biology and Evolution·DateMay 26, 2020

Female bonobos send mixed messages to males

A study of wild female bonobos found that their sexual swellings are unreliable signals of fertility, allowing females to manipulate mate choice. The findings suggest that male bonobos may not be able to successfully compete over females due to the variability in swelling patterns.

SourceMax-Planck-Gesellschaft·JournalBMC Evolutionary Biology·DateJul 6, 2016

Measuring progesterone receptor expression to improve hormone-receptor-positive cancer management

Researchers have found that measuring progesterone receptor expression can improve hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer management. The study identifies a subpopulation of patients with high survival rates when treated with endocrine therapy alone, and could lead to a more personalized medicine approach in breast cancer.

SourceEuropean Society for Medical Oncology·JournalAnnals of Oncology·DateMay 3, 2012

New study documents use of hormone progesterone in simple microscopic aquatic animals

A new study reveals that the chemical mediator for sexual reproduction in rotifers is progesterone, a molecule also found in humans and plays a vital role in regulating reproduction. The research has significant evolutionary implications and sheds light on how environment, metabolism, hormones, and behaviors interact.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateJun 14, 2010

USC researchers find evidence that progesterone signaling influences ovarian cancer risk

Researchers from USC found evidence that progesterone signaling influences ovarian cancer risk, particularly two haplotypes (4-D and 4-E) that increase risk by almost 3.5-fold in women who carry them. The study's findings suggest that subtle changes in the progesterone receptor gene may decrease its efficiency, leading to ovarian cancer.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalJNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute·DateJan 4, 2005