Kisspeptin neurons as an integration center of reproductive regulation: Observation of reproductive function based on a new concept of reproductive regulatory nervous system

[摘要] Background Regulation of the reproductive system has been explained by the actions and feedback of gonadotropin releasing hormone-luteinizing hormone/follicle stimulating hormone (GnRH-LH/FSH) -sex steroids; however, the discovery of kisspeptin neurons and a kisspeptin-GnRH-LH/FSH axis has prompted this regulation to be reviewed. Methods We investigated changes in kisspeptin neurons and associated changes in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis under various situations and experimental conditions using histochemical methods. Main findings (Results) Kisspeptin neurons play an important role in receiving and integrating information from internal and external environmental factors and communicating it to the conventional HPG axis. Conclusion The recently described Kisspeptin-GnRH-LH/FSH-gonad system regulates reproductive function via mechanisms that until recently were not completely understood.

[学科分类] 工业工程学

[关键词] gonadotropin-releasing hormone;HPG axis;kisspeptin;puberty;reproductive regulation