Hypothermic Conditions Impair GnRH Pulse Generator Activity and Gametogenesis

Abstract

Mammalian reproductive function is driven by arcuate kisspeptin neurons, pacemakers of gonadotropin secretion. During energy shortages, animals reallocate resources from reproduction to survival; however, the underlying neural mechanisms remain elusive. Here we used fiber photometry to chronically monitor synchronized episodes of arcuate kisspeptin neuron activity (SEskiss) in adult mice under various energy-saving conditions. In both sexes, SEskiss frequency was markedly suppressed during fasting-induced torpor and pharmacologically induced hypothermia, whereas hypometabolism alone had no discernible effect. A Q neuron-induced hypothermic state (QIH) robustly suppressed SEskiss, leading to impaired gamete maturation, whereas warming the body temperature during QIH fully restored SEskiss frequency. These findings demonstrate that hypothermia, rather than hypometabolism, is the primary driver of suppression of the hypothalamic reproductive axis during energy-saving conditions. This study provides insights into how thermal signals act as critical gatekeepers in the mammalian reproductive system.