Kisspeptin
Also known as: KP-54, KP-10, Kiss-1, Metastin
Overview
Kisspeptin refers to a family of peptides (KP-54, KP-14, KP-13, KP-10) encoded by the KISS1 gene, which are essential regulators of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. Named after Hershey, Pennsylvania (where they were discovered), they function as master regulators of puberty onset, reproductive cycling, and fertility. KP-54 is the predominant form in humans. Research shows kisspeptin may also link reproductive function with metabolic status, making it a target for both fertility disorders and metabolic disease.
Mechanism of Action
Kisspeptin binds to KISS1R (GPR54), a G-protein coupled receptor coupled to Gq/11α, which activates phospholipase C and drives pulsatile GnRH release from hypothalamic neurons. This triggers downstream LH and FSH secretion from the pituitary, driving gonadal steroid production. KP54 bolus infusion in healthy women during the follicular phase causes pulsatile LH secretion. KP also acts peripherally in the ovary, testis, uterus, and pancreas, influencing local reproductive function and insulin secretion.
Potential Benefits
- Restoration of pulsatile GnRH/LH/FSH secretion in infertility
- Potential treatment of hypothalamic amenorrhea
- Ovarian stimulation protocol adjunct
- Puberty induction in idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
- Potential improvement of sexual desire (central effects)
- Linkage between metabolic status and reproductive function
- Cryoprotectant research in oocyte vitrification
Dosage Protocols
The following reflects doses used in published research studies. This is not medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional.
| Typical Range | 100-300 mcg subcutaneous (Kisspeptin-10) |
| Beginner | 100 mcg subcutaneously |
| Intermediate | 150-200 mcg subcutaneously |
| Advanced | 300 mcg subcutaneously or clinical IV infusion protocol |
| Cycle Duration | 4-8 weeks; some use intermittent (2-3x/week) |
| Cycle Off | 4 weeks |
Kisspeptin-54 and Kisspeptin-10 (C-terminal decapeptide) are both used; Kisspeptin-10 is more commonly available and studied. Pulsatile dosing preserves LH sensitivity. Continuous high-dose administration can paradoxically suppress GnRH via receptor desensitization.
Use our Reconstitution Calculator to determine exact syringe units for your protocol.
Routes of Administration
Subcutaneous Injection High — systemic distribution
Most common administration route for research peptides. Inject into abdominal fat, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites. standard research dose.
Intramuscular Injection High — with slightly faster onset than SC
Alternative route when deeper delivery or faster absorption is desired. Less commonly used than SC for most research peptides.
Read our full Routes of Administration Guide for detailed comparison of all delivery methods.
Stacking Protocols
Popular research stacks involving Kisspeptin:
Metabolic Health Stack
Combines Kisspeptin with MOTS-c (mitochondrial metabolism) and AOD-9604 (lipolysis) for metabolic optimization.
Explore our complete Peptide Stacking Guide for more combinations and safety considerations.
Reconstitution
| Typical Vial Size | 2mg, 5mg (Kisspeptin-10), 10mg (Kisspeptin-54) |
|---|---|
| BAC Water | 1-2ml per 2mg vial |
| Storage | Refrigerate at 2-8°C after reconstitution |
| Shelf Life | 28 days refrigerated |
Need exact syringe measurements?
Amino Acid Sequence
KP-54: YNWNSFGLRF-amide and additional 44 N-terminal residues; KP-10: Tyr-Asn-Trp-Asn-Ser-Phe-Gly-Leu-Arg-Phe-NH2
Side Effects & Safety
- Generally well-tolerated in clinical studies
- Nausea at high doses
- Hot flashes
- Potential ovarian hyperstimulation with fertility protocols
Safety & Contraindications
This information is for educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any peptide.
Hormone-Sensitive Cancers
Pregnancy / Lactation
Bleeding Disorders
Active Skin Infection at Injection Site
Pharmacokinetics
| Half-Life | Kisspeptin-54: ~27 minutes; Kisspeptin-10: ~3-4 minutes |
|---|---|
| Storage | Store lyophilized peptide at -20°C (long-term) or 2-8°C (short-term, under 30 days). Reconstituted: refrigerate at 2-8°C and use within 28-30 days. Protect from light. Do not freeze reconstituted solution. |
Synergistic Compounds
The following compounds have been studied alongside Kisspeptin for potential complementary or synergistic effects:
Learn More
References & Further Reading
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