| KNDy neuron | |
|---|---|
| Details | |
| System | Reproductive system |
| Location | Hypothalamus |
| Anatomical terms of microanatomy | |
Kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin (KNDy) neurons are neurons in the hypothalamus of the brain that are central to the hormonal control of reproduction.
KNDy neurons in the hypothalamus coexpress kisspeptin, neurokinin B (NKB) and dynorphin. They are involved in the negative feedback of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) release in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis. Sex steroids released from the gonads act on KNDy neurons as inhibitors of kisspeptin release. This inhibition provides negative feedback control on the HPG axis.[citation needed]
KNDy peptide colocalization was first discovered in 2007 in sheep[1] and was later confirmed to be present in mice, rats, cows and nonhuman primates.[1] KNDy neurons are thought to be located in the hypothalamus region of human brains due to conservation across most mammalian species.[1]
Other roles of KNDy neurons include influences on prolactin production; puberty; stress' effects on reproduction; and the control of thermoregulation.[1]