kisspeptin10

Kisspeptin-10 (KP-10) is a short peptide, a decapeptide fragment derived from kisspeptin proteins encoded by the KISS1 gene. It functions as an endogenous ligand for the kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R, also known as GPR54). In the hypothalamus, KP-10 binds to KISS1R on GnRH-producing neurons and stimulates the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This, in turn, triggers pituitary secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), influencing puberty onset, reproductive function, and the regulation of the menstrual or estrous cycle across species. Signaling through KISS1R is primarily Gq/11-mediated, leading to intracellular calcium elevations and neuronal excitation.

KP-10 is one of several kisspeptin fragments studied, and it is frequently used in research because of its robust activity in activating GnRH neurons across mammals. It is typically tested or administered via injection in experimental settings, as peptide stability and oral bioavailability are limited. The peptide’s biological relevance extends beyond reproduction; kisspeptin signaling has been investigated in cancer biology, where KISS1/KISS1R pathways have been linked to metastasis suppression in some tumor models, as well as in metabolic regulation of reproductive function.

Applications of KP-10 in research include studying puberty and infertility mechanisms, mapping GnRH neuronal networks, and evaluating receptor pharmacology. While promising, clinical applications of KP-10 remain experimental and are the subject of ongoing investigation.