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
🧮 Personalized Dosage Calculator
💰 Estimated Pricing
Typical Supply
5mg vial
Last Updated
2026-02
GnRH stimulator. Research chemical pricing. Used in fertility and testosterone research. Limited clinical availability.
⚠️ Prices are estimates based on publicly available data and may vary significantly by vendor, location, and prescription status. This is not medical or financial advice.
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
🩸 Blood Work
Total Testosterone
Kisspeptin stimulates GnRH → LH → testosterone production
Free Testosterone
Bioavailable testosterone for accurate assessment
LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
Direct downstream marker of kisspeptin activity
FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone)
Assess gonadotropin axis
Estradiol (E2)
Monitor estrogen with testosterone changes — aromatase activity
SHBG
Sex hormone binding globulin affects free testosterone levels
Prolactin
Rule out prolactinoma as cause of low testosterone
Master regulator of the HPG axis. Used to stimulate natural testosterone production. Full hormone panel is essential to establish baseline and identify underlying causes of hypogonadism.
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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