What is Kisspeptin (10mg)?

Kisspeptin is a family of neuropeptides encoded by the KISS1 gene, existing in several biologically active isoforms such as kisspeptin-54, -14, -13, and -10. All share a conserved Arg–Phe–NH₂ terminal motif, which is critical for their interaction with the G-protein coupled receptor GPR54 (Kiss1R). Initially discovered as a metastasis suppressor factor in cancer research, kisspeptin has since become widely recognized for its central role in reproductive and neuroendocrine signaling, particularly in the regulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis.

By directly activating GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) neurons, kisspeptin initiates downstream release of LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone). Its signaling pathway is also essential for pubertal onset, making it a focus of research in developmental endocrinology. Beyond reproduction, kisspeptin continues to be investigated for its roles in metabolism, behavior, and cancer biology.

Chemical Structure of Kisspeptin

• Form studied most frequently: Kisspeptin-10 (Kp-10)
• Peptide sequence: Tyr–Asn–Trp–Asn–Ser–Phe–Gly–Leu–Arg–Phe (YNWNSFGLRF)
• Key feature: Conserved Arg–Phe–NH₂ motif critical for receptor binding
• Molecular formula: C₆₃H₈₃N₁₇O₁₄
• Molecular weight: ~1,302.4 Da
• Synonyms: KISS-1, metastin, Kp-10 peptide

Research Applications of Kisspeptin

1. Regulation of Reproductive Hormones
   Kisspeptin directly stimulates GnRH secretion, which in turn governs the release of LH and FSH, making it central to studies of fertility and gonadal function.
2. Puberty and Development
   The kisspeptin–GPR54 pathway is a key gatekeeper of pubertal initiation, with disruptions in this system linked to hypogonadotropic states in both animal and human research models.
3. Cancer Biology and Metastasis
   Initially termed metastin, kisspeptin has been studied for its ability to suppress tumor spread and inhibit cellular invasion in preclinical cancer models.
4. Neurobehavioral Research
   Kisspeptin influences brain circuits involved in sexual behavior, attraction, and mood, offering a window into the neuroendocrine regulation of social and emotional responses.
5. Metabolism and Cardiovascular Studies
   Rodent studies suggest roles for kisspeptin in energy homeostasis, appetite regulation, and cardiovascular signaling, indicating its broader systemic influence.

Citations

1. PubChem Compound Summary – Kisspeptin‑10: Sequence YNWNSFGLRF, molecular data and synonyms Overview of Kisspeptin
2. de Roux N, et al. “Loss of function of GPR54 causes hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.” Overview of Kisspeptin
3. Chan YM, et al. “GPR54 is essential for puberty induction.” Overview of Kisspeptin
4. Han SK, et al. “Kisspeptin activates GnRH neurons to trigger puberty.” Overview of Kisspeptin
5. Dhillo WS, et al. “Kisspeptin stimulates the HPG axis in humans.” Overview of Kisspeptin
6. Mills EG, et al. “Kisspeptin improves sexual brain response in women with HSDD.” Overview of Kisspeptin
7. Mills EG, et al. “Kisspeptin affects penile tumescence in men with HSDD.” Overview of Kisspeptin
8. Tomikawa J, et al. “Kisspeptin regulates metabolism and energy balance in mice.” Overview of Kisspeptin