Search

The discovery of the neuropeptide kisspeptin and of its role in the regulation of reproduction have been a breakthrough in our understanding of the physiological mechanisms mastering this physiological function. Several pharmacological and genetic approaches using animal models have shown that kisspeptin directly stimulates GnRH and consequently gonadotrophins secretion. The two main kisspeptin populations are located in the preoptic area and arcuate nucleus. These populations are the target of the positive and negative feedback of sexual hormones. Due to its central role in the stimulation of GnRH secretion, the effect of kisspeptin has been the focus of clinical studies evaluating its capacity to treat some reproductive pathologies. Promising results have been obtained for in vitro fertilization therapy and for the treatment of hypothalamic amenorrhea. Preliminary studies were also performed in patients affected by the polycystic ovary syndrome and by hypofertility due to type II diabetes. All together, these results show that the modulation of the kisspeptin system is a promising therapeutic opportunity. In the future, thanks to the creation of synthetic molecules capable to palliate some limitation of the endogenous molecules, clinical research based on the modulation of the kisspeptin system will certainly gain momentum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]