Kisspeptins, the Story So Far

Kisspeptins are short chain proteins, produced by the Kiss1 gene (hence the name).

They couple to G-protein receptors. They act both as promotors and inhibitors to mainly sex hormone activity but were first discovered as inhibitors of metastatic spread of melanoma and breast cancer in 1969.

They are found extensively throughout the brain and endocrine systems of the body and seem to have many functions, most of which are still to be discovered! They are important in the regulation of the onset of puberty, fertility and the menopause.

The Imperial team are looking at their role in polycystic ovary syndrome and the role of Kisspeptins in sexual attraction.