Kisspeptin (previously known as metastin) is a protein encoded by the KISS-1 gene in humans. Kisspeptin producing neurons seem to bridge the gap between the sex steroid levels and feedback mechanisms that control the gonadotropin releasing hormone secretion. Since 2003, there are many studies on the facets of neuroendocrine networks that control puberty and fertility. These have explored the role of Kisspeptins in puberty and fertility using animal models. Kisspeptins are universally recognized as essential activators of the gonadotropic axis and they play an essential role in the metabolic regulation of fertility. Moreover, novel aspects of Kisspeptins/G-protein coupled receptor 54 or Kisspeptin receptor (KPs/GPR54) physiology have demonstrated the Kisspeptins involvement in the neuroendocrine control of ovulation. In this article, the authors highlight the outcome of the most recent work on Kisspeptin role in reproduction in human and animal models and give an opinion on future perspectives.
Key words: Axis; Kisspeptin; gonadal; gonadotropins; hypothalamus; pituitary; puberty; signalling
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