Metastasis suppressor protein. May regulate events downstream of cell-matrix adhesion, perhaps involving cytoskeletal reorganization. Generates a C-terminally amidated peptide, metastin which functions as the endogenous ligand of the G-protein coupled receptor GPR54. The receptor is essential for normal gonadotropin-released hormone physiology and for puberty. The hypothalamic KiSS1/GPR54 system is a pivotal factor in central regulation of the gonadotropic axis at puberty and in adulthood.
Subcellular locations: Secreted
In the hypothalamus, expression increases with puberty in both male and female monkeys. Robust expression in the region of the arcuate nucleus (ARC).