Clinical Trials Sexual & Reproductive Health

Kisspeptin-54

also known as: Kp-54, metastin, KISS1(68-121)

The full-length endogenous kisspeptin, with the most advanced clinical data as an alternative ovulation trigger in IVF that markedly reduces ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) risk.

The mature 54-residue product of the KISS1 gene (originally identified as a metastasis suppressor), acting at KISS1R as the principal endogenous activator of GnRH neurons and the reproductive axis.

Mechanism of action

Full agonist at KISS1R (GPR54) on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus. Activates Gq/11α → PLCβ → IP3/DAG → intracellular Ca²⁺ mobilization, depolarizing GnRH neurons and triggering LH and FSH pulses. As an IVF trigger, produces an endogenous LH surge that induces final oocyte maturation without the sustained receptor activation of hCG, which is the mechanistic basis for its reduced OHSS risk.

Primary uses

IVF ovulation trigger (Phase 2, high-OHSS-risk patients)
Hypothalamic amenorrhea (investigational)
Reproductive axis research

Typical dosing

3.2–12.8 nmol/kg single IVF trigger dose (subcutaneous)

Clinical trial dosing. No community dosing framework.

Regulatory status

Not approved. Phase 2 trials (Imperial College London / Dhillo group) established kisspeptin-54 as an effective ovulation trigger in IVF with substantially lower OHSS risk than hCG. Additional trials ongoing in hypothalamic amenorrhea.

References

[clinical-trial] Jayasena CN, et al. "Kisspeptin-54 triggers egg maturation in women undergoing in vitro fertilization." J Clin Invest, 2014;124:3667-3677.
[clinical-trial] Abbara A, et al. "Efficacy of kisspeptin-54 to trigger oocyte maturation in women at high risk of OHSS during IVF therapy." J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 2015;100:3322-3331.

Related peptides

Kisspeptin-10

A short active fragment of human kisspeptin — under active clinical investigation for hypothalamic amenorrhea, infertility, and low libido in men and women.

HCG

An FDA-approved fertility and hypogonadism medication commonly discussed in peptide and TRT communities for post-cycle recovery and testicular preservation during testosterone therapy.

Disclaimer

This entry is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Dosing information reflects published regulatory or research data and is not a recommendation. Many compounds described here are not approved for human use in the United States. Consult a licensed medical professional before considering any peptide therapy.