Maturational Event in the CNS:

•The onset of puberty is primarily a maturational event within the central nervous system (CNS), though the exact details of this process are not fully understood.

Genetic Factors:

•There is an inherent genetic component involved, marked by the maturation of 1,000 to 3,000 GRH-synthesizing neurons.

Environmental and Nutritional Influences:

•Improved nutrition over the last century has led to earlier onset of puberty.

•Conditions like anorexia nervosa or malnutrition can delay puberty.

•There is a theory that 17-18% body fat is required to initiate puberty, and 22% body fat is needed to maintain the menstrual cycle, possibly linked to leptin levels.

Kisspeptin:

•The newest theory suggests that mutations in Kisspeptin can either activate or inactivate the initiation of puberty.

Review: HPG Axis & Puberty (Physiology 2)