Schistosome dipeptide of love

The female schistosome's dependence on the male to reach sexual maturity has puzzled scientists for decades. Using various molecular techniques, Chen et al. dissect the synthesis pathway of the beta-alanyl-tryptamine dipeptide (BATT), emitted by the male into its environment, which induces sexual maturation and egg-laying in the female.

Automated summary

Scientists have discovered that the beta-alanyl-tryptamine dipeptide (BATT) emitted by male schistosomes is the key factor inducing sexual maturation and egg-laying in females.