Kisspeptin-10
Reproductive / Hormonal PeptideresearchAlso known as: KP-10, Metastin 45-54, KISS1-derived peptide
A 10-amino acid fragment of kisspeptin that is the most potent endogenous stimulator of GnRH release, playing a critical role in reproductive hormone regulation and fertility.
Overview
Kisspeptin-10 is the shortest bioactive fragment of the kisspeptin family, derived from the KISS1 gene product. It is the most potent known endogenous activator of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, acting through the kisspeptin receptor (KISS1R/GPR54) on GnRH neurons to stimulate gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion. This cascade leads to LH and FSH release, which in turn stimulates testosterone production in males and estrogen/progesterone in females. Kisspeptin-10 has garnered significant research interest for its potential in treating hypogonadism, infertility, and as a diagnostic tool for reproductive disorders. Clinical trials have demonstrated its ability to robustly stimulate LH release in both men and women. In the biohacking community, it is explored as a natural alternative to exogenous testosterone or hCG for maintaining endogenous hormone production.
Mechanism of Action
Kisspeptin-10 acts through the HPG axis: (1) Binds to KISS1R (GPR54) receptors on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus; (2) Activates Gq/11 signaling, increasing intracellular calcium and depolarizing GnRH neurons; (3) Stimulates pulsatile GnRH release into the hypophyseal portal system; (4) GnRH acts on anterior pituitary gonadotropes to release LH and FSH; (5) LH stimulates Leydig cells (males) to produce testosterone or theca cells (females) for steroidogenesis; (6) FSH supports spermatogenesis in males and follicular development in females; (7) Subject to negative feedback from sex steroids, maintaining physiological regulation.
Molecular Formula
C56H78N14O12
Molecular Weight
1131.31 g/mol
Sequence
Tyr-Asn-Trp-Asn-Ser-Phe-Gly-Leu-Arg-Phe-NH2
Dosage Protocols
Dose Range
100mcg – 500mcg
Frequency
Once to twice daily
Route
subcutaneous
Cycle Length
4-8 weeks
Pulsatile dosing may be more physiological. Higher continuous doses can paradoxically desensitize the receptor. Some protocols use every-other-day dosing. Very short half-life (~30 minutes).
Source: Community protocols and clinical research extrapolation
Side Effects
| Effect | Severity |
|---|---|
| Injection site discomfort | mild |
| Facial flushing | mild |
| Headache | mild |
| Receptor desensitization | moderate |
| Hormonal fluctuations | moderate |
Pros & Cons
Stimulates the entire HPG axis naturally, preserving endogenous hormone production and feedback
Human clinical trial data supporting robust LH and testosterone stimulation
Does not bypass natural regulatory mechanisms — maintains physiological pulsatility
Potential fertility applications in both sexes without exogenous hormone administration
Very short half-life (~30 min) requiring frequent dosing or pulsatile administration
Continuous dosing leads to receptor desensitization and reduced efficacy (tachyphylaxis)
Not yet approved for clinical use — research compound only
Testosterone elevation is modest compared to exogenous TRT or hCG
Research Studies
Legal Status
Not FDA-approved. Available as a research chemical. Used in clinical research settings for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. No specific regulatory restrictions in most jurisdictions.
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