Kisspeptin Spray

Research Benefits

• Reproductive Endocrinology — Kisspeptin is the master regulator of GnRH release, making it essential for studying the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.
• Puberty Research — Loss-of-function mutations in KISS1R/GPR54 cause hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, establishing kisspeptin as a gatekeeper of pubertal onset.
• GnRH Pulse Generator — Kisspeptin neurons in the arcuate nucleus form the GnRH pulse generator (KNDy network), providing a research target for understanding pulsatile hormone release.
• Fertility Studies — Research explores kisspeptin's ability to stimulate LH and FSH release, with applications in reproductive biology and neuroendocrine research.

Mechanism of Action

Kisspeptin is a family of RF-amide peptides encoded by the KISS1 gene, with the bioactive forms including kisspeptin-54, -14, -13, and -10. All share a common C-terminal decapeptide required for receptor activation.

GPR54/KISS1R Activation: Kisspeptin binds the G-protein coupled receptor GPR54 (KISS1R) on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus. Receptor activation triggers Gq/11 signaling, phospholipase C activation, and intracellular calcium mobilization.

GnRH Release: Activation of KISS1R directly depolarizes GnRH neurons and stimulates pulsatile GnRH secretion into the hypophyseal portal system, which drives pituitary gonadotropin (LH, FSH) release.

KNDy Network: Kisspeptin neurons co-express neurokinin B and dynorphin (forming the KNDy neuron population), which together generate the rhythmic GnRH pulse pattern essential for normal reproductive function.

Steroid Feedback: Kisspeptin neurons are the primary mediators of sex steroid (estrogen, testosterone) negative feedback on the HPG axis, with estrogen receptor-α expressed on kisspeptin neurons regulating KISS1 transcription.

Research Protocol

Derived from published research. For research use only.

Reconstitution

Reconstitute in sterile water or PBS. Stock: 1 mg/mL. Use low-binding tubes.

Research Dosing (from published studies)

• In vivo (murine): Kisspeptin-10: 1-100 nmol IP or ICV for acute GnRH/LH stimulation.
• In vitro: 1-1000 nM for GnRH neuron electrophysiology and calcium imaging studies.
• Larger models: 0.1-1 nmol/kg IV for LH pulse studies, with serial blood sampling at 10-minute intervals.

Storage

Lyophilized at -20°C. Reconstituted at 2-8°C, use within 7 days.

Safety & Handling

Research Use Only.

Storage Conditions

• Lyophilized: -20°C
• Reconstituted: 2-8°C, use within 7 days
• Susceptible to oxidation; use fresh preparations

Known Considerations from Literature

• Kisspeptin has a short plasma half-life (minutes) due to rapid enzymatic degradation by matrix metalloproteinases.
• Continuous kisspeptin administration can cause GnRH receptor desensitization and paradoxical gonadotropin suppression (tachyphylaxis).
• Reproductive models should account for sex and estrous cycle stage, as kisspeptin sensitivity varies with steroid milieu.

Handling

Standard PPE. Low-binding plasticware recommended. Minimize light exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Kisspeptin?

Kisspeptin is a neuropeptide that acts as the master upstream regulator of GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) secretion. It binds GPR54/KISS1R and is essential for normal reproductive function and puberty onset.

What forms of kisspeptin are used in research?

Kisspeptin-10 (the C-terminal decapeptide) is most commonly used in research because it retains full receptor-binding activity in a shorter, more stable form than kisspeptin-54.

Why does continuous kisspeptin cause suppression?

Sustained kisspeptin exposure desensitizes KISS1R on GnRH neurons, leading to reduced GnRH secretion and subsequent gonadotropin suppression. This tachyphylaxis is a key consideration in experimental design.

What purity is this product?

BeaCapra Kisspeptin is ≥99% pure by HPLC with full COA documentation.