Conserved functions of hypothalamic kisspeptin in vertebrates

•The function of the kisspeptin-Kissr pathway in teleosts remains controversial.•Estrogens and metabolic sensitivities are commonly observed in vertebrate kisspeptin neurons.•Kisspeptin’s role in emotions and fear processing may also be conserved.•Kisspeptin system is valuable for comprehensive understanding of vertebrate neuroendocrinology.