Pondering Kisspeptin, Reproduction, and Energy Balance with Victor Navarro

Dr. Victor Navarro at Harvard Medical School talks about the control of reproduction by neurons in the hypothalamus that produce a small protein called 'kisspeptin'. It turns out that kisspeptin neurons play critical roles in the regulation of the onset of puberty, the production of eggs and sperm, ovulation, and menopause. Energy (calorie) intake can have profound effects on reproduction. For example, severe caloric restriction during early life retards the onset of puberty and inhibits estrous cycles in adult females. On the other hand childhood obesity accelerates onset of puberty, and adult obesity can cause sexual dysfunction and infertility. Dr. Navarro talks about the influence of energy balance on kisspeptin neurons and reproduction, and the potential of kisspeptin-based therapies for reproductive disorders.

Links:

Review articles:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8852368/pdf/nihms-1778788.pdf

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7159845/pdf/nihms-1569705.pdf

Talk on kisspeptin and sexual behaviors:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e5updgoSLGE