Research Context
Our Kisspeptin-10 vial is a neuropeptide fragment supplied at >99% HPLC purity for GnRH and reproductive-axis research.
Within the broader landscape of research compounds — colloquially referred to in community forums as compounds or "research peptides" — Kisspeptin-10 is studied for its mechanistic profile in controlled laboratory protocols. Investigators frequently catalog it alongside complementary research compounds when designing comparative or pathway-level studies.
A neuropeptide fragment studied for its central role in activating the GnRH and reproductive axis.
Kisspeptin-10 (Metastin): Upstream Master Regulator of the HPG Axis
Kisspeptin-10 (frequently referred to in research communities as Kiss, Kiss-10, or simply Kisspeptin) is a synthetic decapeptide — a 10-amino-acid fragment corresponding to the C-terminal sequence of the endogenous Kisspeptin protein. It is the smallest biologically active fragment of the Kisspeptin family and serves as the high-affinity endogenous ligand for the G protein-coupled receptor KISS1R (formerly known as GPR54 or the Metastin receptor).
The historical context of its naming is notable. While it is widely known as Kisspeptin in reproductive research, it was originally discovered and named "Metastin" due to its initial identification as a potent inhibitor of tumor metastasis.
Its role as the master upstream trigger of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) axis was discovered shortly after, making Metastin / Kisspeptin one of the most critical neuropeptides in endocrinology and fertility research. Laboratories that buy research-grade Kisspeptin-10 typically do so to investigate this upstream regulation of GnRH pulsatility.
Kiss-10 is heavily utilized in research models investigating the central regulation of reproduction, gonadotropin release, and pubertal timing. It is frequently referenced alongside specific protocol dosages (such as microgram quantities per pulse) and is most commonly studied in neuroendocrinology, reproductive biology, and the investigation of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
Investigators searching for Kisspeptin-10 for sale typically source it as a lyophilized, HPLC-verified decapeptide suitable for in vitro receptor binding assays and in vivo pulsatile administration protocols.
Kisspeptin-10 Mechanism of Action: KISS1R Activation and GnRH Pulse Generation
Kisspeptin-10 binds to and activates KISS1R (the Kisspeptin-1 receptor), a Gq/11-coupled receptor expressed primarily on Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) neurons in the hypothalamus. This binding activates the phospholipase C (PLC) signaling cascade, leading to the production of inositol trisphosphate (IP3) and diacylglycerol (DAG), which triggers a rapid increase in intracellular calcium and subsequent depolarization of the GnRH neuron.
Activation of KISS1R by Kiss-10 is the primary physiological driver for the pulsatile release of GnRH from the hypothalamus. Maintaining this natural, episodic pulsatility is absolutely critical, as continuous, non-pulsatile exposure to GnRH leads to receptor desensitization and a paradoxical shutdown of the reproductive axis. Kisspeptin is uniquely capable of generating these essential GnRH pulses in research models.
The pulsatile release of GnRH triggered by Metastin / Kiss travels via the hypophyseal portal system to the anterior pituitary gland. This stimulates the gonadotroph cells to synthesize and release Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH), which in turn travel to the gonads to drive sex steroid production (testosterone and estradiol) and gametogenesis. This makes Kisspeptin-10 the ultimate upstream "on-switch" for the entire reproductive axis.
Kisspeptin-10 vs. Kisspeptin-14 vs. Kisspeptin-54: Comparative Kisspeptin Fragment Research Analysis
Researchers frequently compare these three fragments of the Kisspeptin family to understand the trade-offs between peptide length, receptor affinity, half-life, and specific in vitro or in vivo applications.
| Feature | Kisspeptin-10 (Kiss-10) | Kisspeptin-14 | Kisspeptin-54 (Native Metastin) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peptide Length | 10 amino acids (C-terminal decapeptide) | 14 amino acids | 54 amino acids (Full endogenous sequence) |
| Receptor Affinity (KISS1R) | High | Very High | Highest (Native physiological ligand) |
| Biological Half-Life | Shortest (rapid degradation) | Intermediate | Longest |
| Primary Mechanism | KISS1R agonism (Gq/11, PLC, Ca2+ influx) | KISS1R agonism (Gq/11, PLC, Ca2+ influx) | KISS1R agonism (Gq/11, PLC, Ca2+ influx) |
| Key Research Advantage | Smallest active fragment; ideal for in vitro assays and acute signaling studies | Balanced potency and stability; versatile for both in vitro and in vivo | Full physiological modeling; most potent in vivo LH/FSH release |
| Primary Research Application | Receptor binding assays, cellular calcium imaging, acute GnRH release | In vivo gonadotropin release studies, reproductive axis modeling | Comprehensive HPG axis studies, pubertal timing, clinical fertility research |
| Typical Research Dosing Scale | Micrograms (mcg) | Micrograms (mcg) | Micrograms to Milligrams (mcg - mg) |
Note: While all three fragments activate the KISS1R receptor, Kisspeptin-10 is distinguished as the minimal active core sequence, making it the preferred choice for isolated in vitro receptor studies and acute cellular signaling assays. Formulation ratios and purity metrics may vary by batch.
Kisspeptin-10 Chemical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Peptide Sequence | Tyr-Asn-Trp-Asn-Ser-Phe-Gly-Leu-Arg-Phe-NH₂ |
| CAS Number | 380735-90-4 |
| Synonyms | Kisspeptin-10, Kiss-10, Metastin, KISS1R ligand |
| Molecular Formula | C₆₃H₈₃N₁₇O₁₄ |
| Molar Mass | ~1302.4 Da |
| Peptide Length | 10 amino acids (Decapeptide, amidated) |
| Purity | ≥99% by HPLC |
| Form | Lyophilized white powder |
Note: Formulation ratios and purity metrics may vary by batch. Always refer to the batch-specific Certificate of Analysis (COA) included with your order for exact composition and laboratory-verified specifications.
Storage and Stability
Lyophilized Kisspeptin-10 should typically be stored at -20°C in a tightly sealed container, protected from light and moisture. Under these conditions, it generally remains stable for up to 24 months from the manufacture date.
Kiss-10 can typically be shipped at room temperature for short periods (up to two weeks) without significant degradation, making it suitable for standard shipping methods.
Once reconstituted with bacteriostatic water, the solution should be refrigerated at 2-8°C and typically used within 28 days. Researchers should avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles and vigorous shaking to maintain peptide integrity.
Research Protocol Considerations
Research Dosing Considerations
In preclinical research models, Kisspeptin-10 is evaluated in microgram (mcg) quantities. Administration is most frequently via subcutaneous or intravenous injection.
Due to its role as the primary upstream regulator of GnRH, it is often studied in protocols examining pulsatile LH and FSH release. Researchers typically use reconstitution volumes of 1–3 mL for precise measurement.
Investigators studying the reproductive axis frequently research Kisspeptin alongside gonadotropins (LH, FSH), sex steroids (testosterone, estradiol), or synthetic GnRH analogs. Comparing the natural, upstream pulsatile stimulation of Metastin / Kiss-10 against the direct, downstream pituitary stimulation of synthetic GnRH analogs is a major focus in neuroendocrine research.
Kisspeptin-10 Research FAQ
Q: Is Kisspeptin-10 legal to purchase?
A: Kisspeptin-10 is sold strictly as a research-grade chemical for in vitro laboratory and preclinical research use only. It is not approved for human or veterinary consumption, diagnosis, or therapy. Purchasers are responsible for compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal regulations governing the acquisition and use of research chemicals.
Q: What is the primary mechanism of Kisspeptin-10 in reproductive research?
A: Kisspeptin-10 is a potent endogenous ligand for the GPR54 receptor (also known as the Kiss1 receptor). By binding to this receptor on hypothalamic neurons, it stimulates the release of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), which in turn triggers the pituitary gland to release Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH).
Q: How does Kisspeptin-10 differ from Gonadorelin?
A: While both stimulate the reproductive axis, they act at different levels. Gonadorelin is synthetic GnRH that acts directly on the pituitary. Kisspeptin-10 acts upstream on the hypothalamus to stimulate natural GnRH secretion. Research suggests Kisspeptin may preserve more physiological pulsatility compared to exogenous GnRH administration.
Q: Why is Kisspeptin-10 frequently studied in fertility research?
A: Kisspeptin is considered the "gatekeeper" of puberty and reproduction. Research indicates it plays a critical role in restarting suppressed reproductive axes, making it a valuable tool for studying conditions like hypogonadotropic hypogonadism or stress-induced reproductive suppression.
Q: Does Kisspeptin-10 cause significant side effects in research models?
A: Research indicates Kisspeptin-10 is generally well-tolerated. The most commonly reported effects are mild flushing or transient nausea immediately following administration. Unlike some other hormonal agents, it does not typically cause long-term downregulation of the HPG axis when used in pulsatile research protocols.
Q: Can Kisspeptin-10 be stacked with other hormonal peptides?
A: Yes. Researchers often combine Kisspeptin-10 with other agents like HCG or Gonadorelin to study synergistic effects on testosterone production or ovulation induction. Each should be reconstituted and administered separately to ensure stability and precise dosing.
Scientific References and Citations
- Kotani M, Detheux M, Vandenbogaerde A, et al. The metastasis suppressor gene KiSS-1 encodes kisspeptins, the natural ligands of the orphan G protein-coupled receptor GPR54. J Biol Chem. 2001;276(37):34631-34636. doi:10.1074/jbc.M104847200
- Dhillo WS, Chaudhri OB, Thompson EL, et al. Kisspeptin-54 stimulates gonadotropin release most potently on the preovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle in women. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2007;92(10):3958-3966. doi:10.1210/jc.2006-2408
- Popa SM, Clifton DK, Steiner RA. Different Kisspeptins and their roles in reproduction. Endocrinology. 2008;149(12):6132-6133. doi:10.1210/en.2008-1134
- Seminara SB, Messager S, Chatzidaki EE, et al. The GPR54 gene as a regulator of puberty. N Engl J Med. 2003;349(17):1614-1627. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa035322
- Uenoyama R, Yamada S, Nagasawa M, et al. Kisspeptin and the HPG axis: insights into the central regulation of reproduction. Front Endocrinol. 2021;12:693422. doi:10.3389/fendo.2021.693422
- Jayasena CN, Dhillo WS. Kisspeptin: a novel therapeutic target for reproductive disorders. Endocr Rev. 2021;42(5):631-658. doi:10.1210/endrev/bnab009