Kisspeptin-10

Kisspeptin-10 (KP-10) is a peptide that plays a crucial role in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which controls reproduction. It is a truncated form of kisspeptin, typically comprising the last 10 amino acids of the parent molecule. Kisspeptin itself is encoded by the _KISS1_ gene and acts as a key upstream regulator of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion from the hypothalamus. GnRH, in turn, stimulates the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). KP-10 is one of several kisspeptin fragments that are biologically active. Its primary function is to bind to the kisspeptin receptor (also known as GPR54 or KISS1R), which is expressed on GnRH neurons. This binding activates the GnRH neurons, leading to increased GnRH pulse frequency and amplitude. Due to its central role in reproductive hormone regulation, KP-10 and other kisspeptin analogues have been investigated for their potential therapeutic applications in various reproductive disorders, including infertility, delayed puberty, and conditions affecting sex hormone production. It is considered an endogenous peptide, meaning it is naturally produced within the body.