Kisspeptin (KP-10)
KISS1 Gene Product | Reproductive Neuropeptide
Community Research
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Kisspeptin acts as a master regulator of the reproductive system, stimulating GnRH neurons essential for puberty, fertility, and reproductive function.
Binds to GPR54/KISS1R receptors on hypothalamic GnRH neurons, triggering pulsatile GnRH release, which stimulates pituitary LH/FSH secretion and gonadal steroid production.
Molecular Data
??NWNSFGLRF?Kisspeptin
Position 1
10: Tyr
Position 2
Asparagine
Position 3
Tryptophan
Position 4
Asparagine
Position 5
Serine
Position 6
Phenylalanine
Position 7
Glycine
Position 8
Leucine
Position 9
Arginine
Position 10
Phenylalanine
Position 11
NH2
Position 12
Research Indications
Restores reproductive hormone secretion in functional or congenital cases by stimulating dormant GnRH axis.
Triggers oocyte maturation with 45% live birth rate and zero severe OHSS cases; safer than hCG.
Restores reproductive hormone pulsatility in women with hypothalamic amenorrhea.
Modulates sexual brain processing; increases penile tumescence by 56% vs placebo.
Modulates sexual and attraction brain processing; increases self-reported sexiness.
Preclinical evidence suggests influence on energy expenditure and activity levels.
Dosing Protocols
Standard administration route; allows precise dosing and rapid hormone stimulation.
| Goal | Dose | Frequency | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gonadotropin stimulation | 100-200mcg | Single dose or 2-3x weekly | SubQ |
| Fertility support | 0.4-1.0 nmol/kg (50-150mcg) | As directed by physician | SubQ (KP-54) |
| Sexual function (clinical) | 1 nmol/kg/h | 75-minute IV infusion | IV infusion |
Reconstitution Instructions
- Bacteriostatic water (BAC water)
- Insulin syringes (0.5-1 mL)
- Alcohol swabs
- Sterile work surface
- 1 Clean work area and hands thoroughly with alcohol
- 2 Calculate required BAC water volume
- 3 Draw calculated water into syringe
- 4 Inject slowly down vial side (not directly onto powder)
- 5 Gently swirl until dissolved (never shake)
- 6 Store in refrigerator at 2-8°C
- 7 Use within 7 days for KP-10; 14 days for KP-54
Interactions
What to Expect
Side Effects & Safety
Common Side Effects
- Minimal acute side effects reported
- Potential mild cardiovascular effects
Stop Signs - Discontinue if:
- Ovarian hyperstimulation signs: severe pelvic pain, bloating, nausea
- Chest pain or cardiovascular symptoms
- Severe headaches or visual disturbances
- Persistent injection site reactions
Contraindications
- Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Caution with cardiovascular disease history
- Daily dosing causes receptor desensitization
Quality Checklist
Good Signs
- White, fluffy powder; proper freeze-drying indicated
- Clear solution after reconstitution; no particles or cloudiness
- Protected from light in amber/opaque vials
Warning Signs
- Slight compaction acceptable if dissolves completely with gentle swirling
Bad Signs
- Discoloration or yellowing indicates oxidation/degradation
- Cloudy after reconstitution indicates degradation or contamination
Frequently Asked Questions
Is kisspeptin better than hCG for IVF ovulation triggering?
Yes, significantly. Kisspeptin-54 achieved 45% live birth rates with zero severe OHSS cases, compared to hCG's higher OHSS incidence. It triggers oocyte maturation more physiologically by stimulating the body's natural LH surge rather than replacing it with exogenous hormone.
Why do men respond to kisspeptin injections?
Kisspeptin stimulates GnRH neurons, triggering the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. A single injection increases LH 3-5 fold, which then stimulates testosterone production. In a 2023 trial, kisspeptin increased penile tumescence by 56% versus placebo in men with erectile dysfunction.
Can I use kisspeptin daily?
No. Daily kisspeptin dosing causes receptor desensitization within days, making the peptide ineffective. Use only 2-3 times weekly maximum. For IVF, a single strategic dose triggers ovulation. For sexual function, spacing doses 48+ hours apart maintains responsiveness.
Is intranasal kisspeptin as effective as injection?
2025 research shows intranasal kisspeptin-54 (12.8 nmol/kg) rapidly stimulates LH in both healthy subjects and women with hypothalamic amenorrhea. It's non-invasive and convenient, though injectable routes remain better studied for reproductive applications.
References
- Effects of Kisspeptin on Sexual Brain Processing and Penile Tumescence in Men With Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: A Randomized Clinical TrialMills EG, Sheridan H, Bhushan S, et al. (Dhillo WS senior author)JAMA Network Open (2023)
32 men completed trial. Kisspeptin-54 IV (1 nmol/kg/h for 75 min) significantly modulated sexual brain processing and increased penile tumescence by up to 56% vs placebo. Potential as first pharmacological treatment for male HSDD.
- Effects of Kisspeptin Administration in Women With Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder: A Randomized Clinical TrialSheridan H, Mills EG, Sherwood RA, et al. (Jayasena CD, Dhillo WS senior authors)JAMA Network Open (2022)
Double-masked, placebo-controlled, 2-way crossover trial in women with HSDD. Kisspeptin modulated sexual and facial attraction brain processing, with hippocampal activation correlating with distress and reduced sexual aversion.
- Efficacy of Kisspeptin-54 to Trigger Oocyte Maturation in Women at High Risk of OHSS During IVF TherapyJayasena CN, Abbara A, Comninos AN, et al. (Dhillo WS senior author)Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2015)
Live birth rates of 45% overall per transfer; 62% at optimal 9.6 nmol/kg dose. Zero cases of moderate, severe, or critical OHSS. Oocyte maturation in 95% of women.
- Intranasal Kisspeptin Administration Rapidly Stimulates Gonadotropin Release in HumansSheridan H, Sherwood RA, Sheridan C, et al. (Dhillo WS senior author)eBioMedicine (2025)
Intranasal kisspeptin-54 (12.8 nmol/kg) rapidly stimulated LH release in healthy men (+4.4 IU/L), healthy women (+1.4 IU/L), and women with hypothalamic amenorrhea (+4.4 IU/L). Formulation stable for 60 days at 4°C.
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Disclaimer
This information is for educational and research purposes only. Consult a healthcare professional before use.