Overview
The goal of this study is to see whether kisspeptin, a naturally occurring hormone, can stimulate the release of other reproductive hormones in men and women with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (IHH). The investigators are also examining whether kisspeptin can help women release eggs from their ovaries. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) may be administered subcutaneously (SC) for approximately six days in a pulsatile fashion, in order to prime the pituitary gland. Kisspeptin will be administered SC for two weeks in a pulsatile fashion. Ultrasound monitoring of ovarian follicular growth (for women) and frequent blood sampling (every 10 minutes for up to 70 minutes) will be performed to assess the physiologic response to kisspeptin over time.
Funding Source: FDA OOPD
Description
Assignment: All study subjects will undergo the same interventions.
Delivery of Interventions:
- Each subject will undergo a review of their medical history, physical exam, and screening laboratories.
- A pelvic ultrasound will be performed on women to assess baseline follicular size.
- A pump may be placed to administer pulsatile SC GnRH for approximately six days.
- A pump will be placed to administer pulsatile SC kisspeptin for two weeks.
- During the course of kisspeptin administration, subjects will
- Undergo q10 min blood sampling (approximately 10 sessions, 70 minutes each)
- For women, undergo pelvic ultrasounds (approximately 3 sessions)
- Optional q10 min sampling up to 8 hours may take place before and after the course of kisspeptin
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Congenital IHH
- Confirmed diagnosis by medical provider supported by low sex steroids in the setting of low or inappropriately normal gonadotropins
- Normal blood pressure (systolic BP < 140 mm Hg, diastolic < 90 mm Hg)
- Not using hormonal replacement or willing to complete an appropriate washout for that particular medication and method of administration
- No current or recent use of a medication that, in the opinion of a study investigator, can modulate the reproductive axis or willing to complete an appropriate washout for that particular medication and method of administration
Exclusion Criteria:
- Any condition (medical, mental, or behavioral) that, in the opinion of a study investigator, would likely interfere with participation in/completion of the protocol
- History of a medication reaction requiring emergency medical care
- Excessive alcohol consumption (>10 drinks/week) and/or active use of illicit drugs
- Any active use of marijuana will be evaluated by a study medical professional to determine if it may impact study participation. Individuals who regularly use marijuana may be asked to washout as referenced in the medication washout section below.
- Pregnant or trying to become pregnant
- Breast feeding
- History of bilateral oophorectomy (ovaries were removed)