Peptides studied across the HPG axis and CNS sexual-response pathways.
This area covers peptides acting on the central and endocrine control of sexual and reproductive function. Two pathways dominate the literature: central melanocortin signaling, studied for sexual-response disorders, and kisspeptin signaling, the upstream regulator of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis.
Endpoints range from hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) and CNS-mediated arousal to reproductive-endocrine applications such as hypothalamic amenorrhea and the study of puberty. Because these peptides act centrally and on hormone cascades, dose timing and feedback regulation are key research variables.