Current Perspectives on Kisspeptins Role in Behaviour

Abstract

The neuropeptide kisspeptin is now well-established as the master regulator of the mammalian reproductive axis. Beyond the hypothalamus, kisspeptin and its cognate receptor are also extensively distributed in extra-hypothalamic brain regions. An expanding pool of animal and human data demonstrates that kisspeptin sits within an extensive neuroanatomical and functional framework through which it can integrate a range of internal and external cues with appropriate neuroendocrine and behavioural responses. In keeping with this, recent studies reveal wide-reaching effects of kisspeptin on key behaviours such as olfactory-mediated partner preference, sexual motivation, copulatory behaviour, bonding, mood, and emotions. In this review, we provide a comprehensive update on the current animal and human literature highlighting the far-reaching behaviour and mood-altering roles of kisspeptin. A comprehensive understanding of this important area in kisspeptin biology is key to the escalating development of kisspeptin-based therapies for common reproductive and related psychological and psychosexual disorders.

Keywords: KISS1; behaviour; emotions; kisspeptin; mood; sex.

Figure 1

Kisspeptin-signalling has neuromodulatory effects on reproductive behaviour, mood and emotions in zebrafish to humans. AOB, accessory olfactory bulb; AVPV, anteroventral periventricular nucleus; GnRH, gonadotropin releasing hormone; KP, kisspeptin; MeA, medial amygdala; MePD, posterodorsal subnucleus of the medial amygdala; POA, preoptic area; USVs, ultrasonic vocalisations.