AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling in GnRH neurons links energy status and reproduction

•GnRH neurons are master elements and final output pathway for the brain control of reproduction•AMPK, key cellular sensor activated in conditions of energy deficit, is functional in GnRH neurons•Female mice deficient for AMPK signaling in GnRH neurons (GAMKO) are hyper-responsive to kisspeptin 10•Female GAMKO mice are resilient to the inhibitory effects of energy deficit on the reproductive axis•AMPK signaling in GnRH neurons transmit inhibitory actions of energy deficit on female reproduction