Kisspeptin is a family of neuropeptides encoded by the KISS1 gene and recognized as a key upstream regulator of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. By activating the kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R), kisspeptin influences GnRH release and subsequently regulates downstream gonadotropin signaling.

Research has investigated kisspeptin in relation to reproductive development, puberty, fertility, menstrual-cycle regulation, and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis function. Different naturally occurring isoforms include kisspeptin-54, kisspeptin-14, kisspeptin-13, and kisspeptin-10, which share a common C-terminal sequence responsible for receptor activation.

Kisspeptin remains an active area of laboratory and translational research, particularly in studies examining reproductive hormone signaling, GnRH pulsatility, and reproductive physiology. Research has also explored potential applications in fertility and reproductive medicine, although specific formulations and uses require appropriate regulatory evaluation.