Kisspeptin: A Critical Regulator of Puberty and Reproductive Function

Kisspeptin has emerged as a critical player in the initiation of puberty and reproductive function. In humans, inactivating mutations of the kisspeptin receptor result in hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism and kisspeptin receptor activating mutations cause precocious puberty. Kisspeptin potently stimulates the release of gonadotrophins predominantly through the release of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Here we review the data from animal and human studies exploring the role of kisspeptin in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Kisspeptin signalling presents a novel target for therapeutic manipulation of the HPG axis.