Abstract
Kisspeptin is a neuropeptide that plays a significant role in human reproduction by its action on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and functions through a G-protein-coupled receptor called G-protein-coupled receptor 54/kisspeptin 1 receptor (GPR54/KISS1R). It is encoded by the kisspeptin 1 (KISS1) gene that is mainly expressed in the hypothalamus. Kisspeptins are also recognized as vital aspects of maturation and proper function of the reproductive system in both males and females. It also plays its role in the onset of puberty, sexual patterns, desires, ovum development in women, sperm quality in men, feedback mechanisms, pregnancy, and lactation. Studies proved the pathological role of kisspeptin dysregulation in disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and infertility. Mutations in the KISS1 gene also contribute to precocious puberty or hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, depending upon the nature of mutations. Levels of kisspeptin also aid in the identification of a few pregnancy-related complications like preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, and act as a marker of miscarriage. Due to the wide range of effects that kisspeptin has on the reproductive axis, investigations are being carried out to develop it as a diagnostic marker, treat diseases like hypogonadism and PCOS, and solve infertility issues.
Highlights
BackgroundKisspeptin is a peptide hormone by structure that has a vital role in the reproductive cycle of humans through its influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis
Kisspeptin, a neuromodulator, is produced mainly in the arcuate and periventricular nuclei of the third ventricle in the hypothalamus. It acts through the kisspeptin 1 (KISS1) receptor and stimulates the production of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)
Kisspeptin plays a crucial role in the onset of puberty, feedback mechanisms, development of the ovum, quality of semen, sexual desires, pregnancy, and lactation
Summary
Kisspeptin is a peptide hormone by structure that has a vital role in the reproductive cycle of humans through its influence on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Kisspeptin and its receptor system are found in other organs, such as the ovary of mature female humans where it plays a critical role in developing a mature ovum and contributes to fertility This effect is further supported by the fact that mutations involved in the kisspeptin pathway may lead to infertility problems [3]. Increased estrogen at the end of the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle activates KISS1 neurons, which increases the GnRH pulse frequency (greater than one pulse per hour) and amplitude This increase causes LH surge and ovulation. Kisspeptin regulates various pathways, including follicular development, oocyte formation, ovulation, ovarian steroidogenesis, embryo implantation, and placenta in females It plays an essential part in spermatogenesis, spermatozoa function, motility, and testicular steroidogenesis in males [26]. Despite its importance, any diagnostic or therapeutic use of kisspeptin has largely been investigational and under review and warrants more experimental studies and clinical trials to explore the promising possibilities
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