An Isolated Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism due to a L102P Inactivating Mutation of KISS1R/GPR54 in a Large Family

Abstract

KISS1R (GPR54) mutations have been reported in several patients with congenital normosmic idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (nIHH). We aim to describe in detail nIHH patients with KISS1R (GPR54) mutations belonging to one related extended family and to review the literature. A homozygous mutation (T305C) leading to a leucine substitution with proline (L102P) was found in three affected kindred (2 males and 1 female) from a consanguineous Saudi Arabian family. This residue is localized within the first exoloop of the receptor, affects a highly conserved amino acid, perturbs the conformation of the transmembrane segment, and impairs its function. In the affected female, a combined gonadotropin administration restored regular period and ovulation and she conceived with a healthy baby boy after 4 years of marriage. We showed that a loss-of-function mutation (p.Tyr305C) in the KISS1R gene can cause (L102P) KISS1 receptor dysfunction and familial nIHH, revealing the crucial role of this amino acid in KISS1R function. The observed restoration of periods and later on pregnancy by an exogenous gonadotropin administration further support, in humans, that the KISS1R mutation has no other harmful effects on the patients apart from the gonadotropin secretion impairment.