Kisspeptin Modulation of Reproductive Function

Abstract

Kisspeptin is a peptide expressed mainly in the infundibular nucleus of the hypothalamus. Kisspeptin plays a crucial role in the regulation of reproductive functions. It is regarded as the most important factor responsible for the control of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, the onset of puberty, and the regulation of menstruation and fertility. Kisspeptin activity influences numerous processes such as steroidogenesis, follicular maturation, ovulation, and ovarian senescence. The identification of kisspeptin receptor mutations that cause hypogonadotropic hypogonadism has initiated studies on the role of kisspeptin in puberty. Pathologies affecting the neurons secreting kisspeptin play a major role in the development of PCOS, functional hypothalamic amenorrhea, and perimenopausal vasomotor symptoms. Kisspeptin analogs (both agonists and antagonists), therefore, may be beneficial as therapy in those afflicted with such pathologies. The aim of this review is to summarize the influence of kisspeptin in the physiology and pathology of the reproductive system in humans, as well as its potential use in therapy.

The Role of Promyelocytic Leukemia Zinc Finger (PLZF) and Glial-Derived Neurotrophic Factor Family Receptor Alpha 1 (GFRα1) in the Cryopreservation of Spermatogonia Stem Cells

“…Therefore, LH and FSH signaling is essential for initiating and sustaining spermatogenesis. Specifically, spermatogonia, primary spermatocytes, secondary spermatocytes, and spermatids are arranged in a highly ordered sequence from the basement membrane to the lumen of the seminiferous tubule [43,44]. These germ cell types are associated with spermatogenesis events such as proliferation, differentiation, meiosis, and spermiogenesis, a complex process that transforms round spermatids into complex spermatozoa following meiosis.…”

Impact of Perinatal Co-exposure to Chlorpyrifos and a High-Fat Diet on Kisspeptin and GnRHR Presence and Reproductive Organs

“…It is implicated in the regulation of puberty onset, fertility, and pregnancy [36]. Extra hypothalamic Kisspeptin has been found to modulate the secretion of reproductive hormones, influence the development and function of reproductive organs, and participate in the establishment of reproductive behaviors [37,38]. Siminara et al, 2003 have reported that mutation in Kisspeptin receptor knockout (KISS1r −/− or GPR54 −/− ) in mice leads to idiopathic hypogonadotropic hy-pogonadism (small testes in male mice and an absence of follicular maturation in female mice) [39].…”

Impact of Perinatal Coexposure to Chlorpyrifos and a High-Fat Diet on Kisspeptin and GnRHR Presence and Reproductive Organs

“…It is implicated in the regulation of puberty onset, fertility, and pregnancy [ 36 ]. Extra hypothalamic Kisspeptin has been found to modulate the secretion of reproductive hormones, influence the development and function of reproductive organs, and participate in the establishment of reproductive behaviors [ 37 , 38 ]. Siminara et al, 2003 have reported that mutation in Kisspeptin receptor knockout (KISS1r −/− or GPR54 −/− ) in mice leads to idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (small testes in male mice and an absence of follicular maturation in female mice) [ 39 ].…”