Kisspeptin

Kisspeptin-10 (KP-10)

A hypothalamic neuropeptide that stimulates GnRH release and is being investigated for fertility and hypogonadism.

100% 50% · t½ ≈ 28m 25% 0m 28m 56m 84m 112m Serum level Time →
Molecular Weight 1302.4 Da
Half-Life ~28 minutes
Typical Dose 1–10 mcg/kg
Cycle Length 4–8 weeks

Description

Kisspeptin is a family of neuropeptides encoded by the KISS1 gene, produced primarily in the arcuate nucleus and anteroventral periventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. The most studied form for research purposes is Kisspeptin-10 (KP-10), the C-terminal decapeptide. Kisspeptin is recognized as the master regulator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis — without kisspeptin signaling, puberty does not occur and reproductive function is absent. It has been investigated in Phase I and II clinical trials for hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, female infertility, and as a diagnostic tool for HPG axis assessment. Kisspeptin levels are regulated by sex steroids (both positive and negative feedback), metabolic status (leptin, insulin), and stress, making it a key integrator of reproductive and metabolic signaling.

Key Characteristics

Molecular Formula

C63H83N15O14

Molecular Weight

1302.4 Da

Half-Life

~28 minutes

Administration Routes

Subcutaneous injection, Intravenous (research)

Typical Dose

1–10 mcg/kg

Frequency

Pulsatile (every 90 minutes) or as directed

Investigated Benefits

* Benefits based on preclinical/animal research unless otherwise noted.

Mechanism of Action

“A hypothalamic neuropeptide that stimulates GnRH release and is being investigated for fertility and hypogonadism.”

Kisspeptin binds to the KISS1 receptor (KISS1R, also known as GPR54) — a Gq/11-coupled GPCR expressed on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus. KISS1R activation triggers the PLC-IP3-DAG pathway, increasing intracellular calcium and depolarizing GnRH neurons, which triggers pulsatile GnRH release into the hypothalamic-pituitary portal circulation. GnRH then binds to GnRH receptors on gonadotroph cells in the anterior pituitary, stimulating the synthesis and pulsatile secretion of LH and FSH. LH acts on Leydig cells in the testes to stimulate testosterone synthesis, while FSH supports spermatogenesis and follicular development. The pulsatile nature of kisspeptin-GnRH-LH signaling is critical: continuous kisspeptin stimulation leads to receptor desensitization and gonadotropin suppression, while pulsatile administration maintains or restores reproductive function.

Administration Routes

Subcutaneous injection

Intravenous (research)

Dosing Protocol

Typical Dose

1–10 mcg/kg

Frequency

Pulsatile (every 90 minutes) or as directed

Cycle Length

4–8 weeks

Administration

Subcutaneous injection

Protocol Notes

Pulsatile administration mimics natural GnRH release. Requires careful monitoring of LH, FSH, and sex hormones.

Reconstitution Guide

Add 1 mL bacteriostatic water to 1 mg vial → 1000 mcg/mL

Storage Information

Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 14 days.

Quality & Sourcing Standards

When sourcing Kisspeptin for research purposes, the following quality benchmarks should be verified before use.

Purity:

>98% (verified by HPLC)

Certificate of Analysis (COA):

Must be provided by supplier

Endotoxin Testing:

<0.1 EU/mg (prevents bacterial contamination)

GMP Compliance:

Manufactured in cGMP-certified facility

Third-Party Testing:

Independent lab verification preferred

Storage Information

Lyophilized: refrigerate. Reconstituted: refrigerate and use within 14 days.

FDA Disclaimer

The statements made within this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. The products and information provided are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. This website is intended for educational and research purposes only. Many peptides described on this site are not approved by the FDA for human therapeutic use and are classified as research chemicals. Nothing on this site constitutes medical advice.

Research Highlights

1

Phase II trials for hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

2

Demonstrated LH and testosterone stimulation in human studies

3

Phase I/II trials for female infertility ongoing

Evidence Level

Multiple animal studies and/or early human trials. Reasonable confidence in mechanism, but human data is limited.

Compatible Peptides

Peptides commonly used alongside Kisspeptin for synergistic effects.

Ipamorelin

The most selective GHRP available, stimulating GH release with minimal cortisol or prolactin elevation.

Sermorelin

An FDA-approved GHRH analog used for GH deficiency diagnosis and treatment, with a favorable safety profile.

Quick Reference

Category

Hormone & GH

Status

Research Only
 

Dose

1–10 mcg/kg

Frequency

Pulsatile (every 90 minutes) or as directed

Cycle

4–8 weeks