Kiss1 neurons in brain regions and how they influence reproduction
Official title: The role of AVPV Kiss1 neurons in modulating female and male reproduction
Funded at Albany Medical College · NIH-11453900 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A small NIH-funded project looks at how specific brain cells (Kiss1 neurons) affect reproductive hormones in adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Albany Medical College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $164,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03HD121021-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11453900 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be adults with reproductive concerns or conditions linked to Kiss1-related pathways, under appropriate ethical approvals.
✕Less likely to help
People without reproductive issues or unrelated brain pathways may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This study focuses on how Kiss1 neurons in the AVPV/PeN and related brain areas influence the hormonal signals that control puberty and fertility in adults. The researchers will use adult human-related data and animal or tissue models to explore how these neurons modulate the brain’s reproductive axis. By mapping where Kiss1 acts and how ablation of certain brain regions changes hormone release, the project aims to reveal new targets for fertility therapies. The work could help explain why infertility persists in some people and guide future treatments. It’s a focused, early-stage project designed to translate brain biology into potential clinical benefits.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could lead to new approaches for treating infertility by targeting brain mechanisms that regulate reproductive hormones.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research shows Kiss1 signaling is crucial for reproduction, with early-stage studies supporting its importance but needing translation to clinical practice.
Where this research is happening
-
Albany Medical College
Albany, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stephens, Shannon Brooke Zoe — Albany Medical College
- Study coordinator: Stephens, Shannon Brooke Zoe
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.