Abstract:

Kisspeptin/ neurokinin B/Dynorphin (KNDy) neurons are a subgroup of Kisspeptin neuron. They are the target cell of sex hormone negative feedback. It produces Neurokinin B (NKB) and Dynorphin A (Dyn). NKB stimulates while Dyn inhibits. These two work together to regulate the control of kisspeptin on GnRH pulse frequency through autocrine and paracrine, maintaining and controlling the secretion of pituitary FSH and LH. It is involved in the initiation of puberty, the regulation of gonadal hormones, the development of female sexual characteristics and the maintenance of reproductive functions, what is more it is closely related to the pathological process of a variety of endocrine disorders, such as thalamic amenorrhea, central precocious puberty and polycystic ovary syndrome, etc. The discovery of KNDy neuron gradually reveals the upstream regulatory mechanism of GnRH, which makes people have a new understanding of reproductive hypothalamic pituitary ovary (HPO) axis. These new understandings have promoted our understanding and thinking of the physiological and pathological mechanisms of reproductive endocrine and related diseases. In this paper, we would review the research and application of KNDy neuron in the field of female reproductive endocrine and provide reference for clinical and scientific researchers.

Key words: Kisspeptin/neurokinin B/dynorphin neuron, Gonadotropin-releasing hormone, Endocrine system diseases, Dynorphins, Neurokinin B, Neurons, Hypothalamo-hypophyseal system