Puberty

Do you know what triggers the biological process of puberty?

Many factors, infact.

Puberty is triggered by a communication pathway in the brain called the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, which is switched on by specific neuroendocrine events.

A neuropeptide called “KISSPEPTIDE” is the starter button that signals the hormonal cascade involving GnRH, FSH. LH, sex steroids, and so on.

Why at a particular age?

Enough energy reserves are required.

Leptin, secreted by body fat, acts as a “fuel gauge”. Critical body weight and fat % unlocks hormonal process for puberty.

Genetics – contributes to 50 to 80% of the timing of puberty.

Some biological breaks, like MKRN3 proteins, are inhibitors of puberty.

Lifestyle – obesity, endocrine disruptors, and improved nutrition may also regulate the timing of puberty.