Researchers looked at variations in the KISS1 gene, which makes the hormone kisspeptin, in Korean girls who started puberty unusually early. They found several genetic differences, including a new one, that were more or less common in the early‑puberty group, suggesting these gene changes might influence when puberty begins. However, the study doesn’t test kisspeptin as a supplement or give any advice for adult health or performance.

Kisspeptin/G-protein couple receptor-54 (GPR54) system plays a key role in the activation of the gonadotropic axis at puberty. Central precocious puberty (CPP) is caused by the premature activation of hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion. This study was aimed to identify KISS1 gene variations and to investigate the associations between KISS1 gene variations and CPP in Korean girls. All coding exons of KISS1 gene were sequenced in Korean girls with CPP (n = 143) and their healthy controls (n = 101). Nine polymorphisms were identified in KISS1 gene. A novel single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), 55648176 T/G, was identified for the first time. SNP 55648184 C/G and 55648186 -/T were detected more frequently in CPP group than in control group. SNP 55648176 T/G was detected less frequently in CPP group than in control group. Haplotype GGGC-ACCC was detected less frequently in CPP group. The genetic variations of KISS1 gene can be contributing factors of development of CPP. The association between the gene variations and CPP should be validated by further evidence obtained from large-scaled and functional studies.