Neurokinin B and the hypothalamic regulation of reproduction

Naomi E. Rance, Sally J. Krajewski, Melinda A. Smith, Marina Cholanian, Penny A. Dacks

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

162 Scopus citations

Abstract

Loss-of-function mutations in the genes encoding either neurokinin B (NKB) or its receptor, NK3 (NK3R), result in hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, characterized by an absence of pubertal development and low circulating levels of LH and gonadal steroids. These studies implicate NKB and NK3R as essential elements of the human reproductive axis. Studies over the last two decades provide evidence that a group of neurons in the hypothalamic infundibular/arcuate nucleus form an important component of this regulatory circuit. These neurons are steroid-responsive and coexpress NKB, kisspeptin, dynorphin, NK3R, and estrogen receptor α (ERα) in a variety of mammalian species. Compelling evidence in the human indicates these neurons function in the hypothalamic circuitry regulating estrogen negative feedback on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. Moreover, in the rat, they form a bilateral, interconnected network that projects to NK3R-expressing GnRH terminals in the median eminence. This network provides an anatomical framework to explain how coordination among NKB/kisspeptin/dynorphin/NK3R/ERα neurons could mediate feedback information from the gonads to modulate pulsatile GnRH secretion. There is substantial (but indirect) evidence that this network may be part of the neural circuitry known as the "GnRH pulse generator," with NK3R signaling as an important component. This theory provides a compelling explanation for the occurrence of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism in patients with inactivating mutations in the TAC3 or TACR3 genes. Future studies will be needed to determine whether NKB signaling plays a permissive role in the onset of puberty or is part of the driving force initiating the maturation of reproductive function.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)116-128
Number of pages13
JournalBrain Research
Volume1364
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 10 2010

Keywords

  • Arcuate nucleus
  • Dynorphin
  • Estrogen
  • Estrogen receptor
  • GnRH
  • Hypogonadotropic hypogonadism
  • Kisspeptin
  • Luteinizing hormone
  • Menopause
  • Tachykinin

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Neuroscience
  • Molecular Biology
  • Clinical Neurology
  • Developmental Biology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Neurokinin B and the hypothalamic regulation of reproduction'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this