REPRODUCTIVE TOXICOLOGY: Impact of endocrine disruptors on neurons expressing GnRH or kisspeptin and pituitary gonadotropins

Environmental endocrine disruptors are increasingly recognized as threats to reproductive health, and understanding how they affect the key regulatory neurons in the reproductive axis is critical. This study by Roepke and Sadlier, published in Reproduction, examined the impact of endocrine disruptors on kisspeptin neurons, GnRH neurons, and pituitary gonadotropins.

The researchers reviewed the evidence on how various environmental chemicals — including bisphenol A, phthalates, and pesticides — affect the neurons responsible for reproductive hormone regulation. They focused particularly on the vulnerability of kisspeptin-expressing neurons, which serve as the upstream gatekeepers of the entire reproductive hormone cascade.

The findings revealed that kisspeptin neurons are particularly susceptible to endocrine disruptor exposure. These chemicals can alter kisspeptin gene expression, disrupt neuron development, and impair the signaling that normally triggers GnRH release. The downstream effects include disrupted puberty timing, impaired fertility, and altered reproductive hormone levels.

This research has important implications for reproductive health in the modern world. As exposure to endocrine disruptors increases, supporting the kisspeptin signaling system becomes even more relevant. The findings suggest that maintaining robust kisspeptin signaling — whether through endogenous support or therapeutic supplementation — may help protect reproductive function against the growing burden of environmental toxin exposure.