Kisspeptin's role in sociability and emotion regulation in autism
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Kisspeptin and the Mind (KISS-MIND): Investigating the Effects of Kisspeptin in Socio-Emotional Brain Processing in Neurotypical and Neurodivergent Men
IRAS ID
358358
Contact name
Waljit S Dhillo
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Imperial College London
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 30 days
Research summary
Neurodivergent individuals, including those with autism, often experience difficulties with communication, social interaction, and how they process sensory information (such as sounds or touch). In the UK, around 1–3 in every 100 adults has a diagnosis of autism, and it is more commonly diagnosed in men than women. Many neurodivergent people are more likely to experience mental health challenges, such as anxiety, depression, or self-harm, which can make social situations even more challenging. Because of this, leading autism organisations have identified improving mental health and social communication as top research priorities.
Kisspeptin is a naturally occurring hormone best known for its role in regulating reproductive hormones and reproductive and sexual behaviour. However, emerging research from animal studies suggests kisspeptin may also influence behaviour by potentially reducing anxiety and increasing sociability. This study aims to explore whether kisspeptin has similar effects in humans, and importantly whether responses differ between neurodivergent and neurotypical individuals.
This physiological study will assess brain activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) while participants complete tasks related to emotional, sexual processing, and social thinking. These tasks are designed to activate brain areas involved in understanding others’ thoughts and feelings, and to mimic elements of real-life social interactions during fMRI scanning sessions.
We will recruit right-handed men aged 18–60, including individuals with a formal diagnosis of autism and matched neurotypical men. Each participant will attend two study visits and receive either kisspeptin or a placebo, in random order.
By comparing brain responses and behavioural outcomes across groups, we aim better to understand how kisspeptin influences anxiety, social brain function and sexual brain-processing. This study may provide valuable insights into brain signalling differences in neurodivergent and neurotypical men. In the longer term, the findings could help guide future research into new therapies to support mental health and wellbeing in neurodivergent individuals.
REC name
London - Westminster Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/LO/0191
Date of REC Opinion
10 Mar 2026
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion