MECHANISM OF ACTION
Kisspeptin is a brain peptide that acts like the starting gun for your reproductive hormone system. It sends the signal that tells the brain to release GnRH (the hormone that then tells the pituitary gland to release LH and FSH, the hormones that control the monthly cycle and ovulation). Without enough kisspeptin signalling, the whole reproductive hormone chain breaks down. Scientists discovered its role when they found that people born with a faulty kisspeptin receptor had no puberty and could not reproduce. KP-10 is the shortest active fragment, just the 10 amino acid piece at the end of the full molecule. Research is exploring kisspeptin as a gentler, more targeted alternative to existing fertility drugs for conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and IVF treatment.
RESEARCH APPLICATIONS
- GnRH pulse regulation and HPG axis research
- Female infertility and anovulation models
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) research
- LH pulsatility and luteal phase support
- Reproductive neuroendocrinology - kisspeptin neuron biology
RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS
GnRH Pulse Initiation
2003IV kisspeptin infusion in hypogonadal women and men reliably triggered LH pulses - confirming its role as the master GnRH pulse generator, with clinical implications for fertility treatment.
Ref: Seminara et al., NEJM
PCOS Selective GnRH Effect
2014Kisspeptin stimulated LH in PCOS women without triggering the exaggerated LH surge seen with GnRH - proposing selective neuroendocrine modulation for PCOS fertility protocols.
Ref: Jayasena et al., J Clin Endocrinol Metab
RESEARCH PROTOCOL NOTES
Chemical Identity
Storage & Stability
Lyophilised: -20°C. Reconstituted: 2–8°C, 14 days. Handle gently - fragile peptide.
Regulatory Status
Research compound. Not approved as drug. Used in IVF research protocols at UK fertility clinics (non-regulatory). Not WADA prohibited. SAHPRA: unscheduled research.