Vesicular GABA transport expression in kisspeptin cells may contribute to the preovulatory gonadotropin surge

Background: The neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) plays a vital role in the modulation of reproductive function by controlling gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion. Most kisspeptin neurons, which are key regulators of GnRH neurons, coexpress GABA and other neuropeptides. However, whether the expression of the vesicular GABA transporter (Vgat) in kisspeptin cells contributes to the reproductive phenotype of mice remains unclear. Methods: mice) were generated to study possible effects on reproduction and metabolism. Results: mice exhibited significantly lower serum luteinizing hormone levels at proestrus. Discussion: expression in kisspeptin neurons may contribute to LH surge generation but is not essential for the onset of puberty or for the maintenance of fertility in either female or male mice.