Kisspeptin Boosts Reproductive Hormones and Fertility in Animal Models

Kisspeptin, a neuropeptide encoded by the KISS1 gene, is a crucial regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which controls reproduction. Initially discovered as a metastasis suppressor, its pivotal role in initiating puberty and maintaining fertility became clear, acting primarily through the GPR54 receptor. Despite its known importance, the optimal therapeutic dosing and long-term efficacy of exogenous kisspeptin in reversing specific forms of reproductive dysfunction remain an active area of investigation.

Treatment with Kisspeptin-10 significantly improved reproductive hormone profiles compared to controls. The 3 mg/kg dose showed the most pronounced effects, leading to a 2.5-fold increase in LH levels (p<0.001) and a 1.8-fold increase in FSH (p<0.01) in both sexes. In male mice, serum testosterone levels increased by 43% (p<0.001) at the 3 mg/kg dose, while female mice exhibited a 35% increase in estradiol (p<0.005), indicating restored gonadal function. Furthermore, treated female mice showed a 60% increase in ovulation rates and a 50% improvement in litter size compared to untreated hypogonadal controls, demonstrating enhanced fertility. These hormonal and functional improvements were sustained throughout the 28-day treatment period.