Artemisinin, best known as an antimalarial drug, may offer very different therapeutic applications. In Science, Chinese researchers describe how an artemisinin derivative inhibits the excess production of ‘male’ hormones, which is a hallmark symptom of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Approximately 10-13% of women of childbearing age suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder characterized by excessive formation of vesicles or cysts in the ovaries, which in turn hinders ovulation with reduced fertility as a result. Women with PCOS often have low levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), while the levels of luteinising hormone (LH) and testosterone are too high. Due to this hormonal imbalance, the condition is also associated with a disturbed metabolism, abnormal and abundant body and facial hair, and a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.