GDF15

GDF15 or Growth Differentiation Factor 15 is a protein that in humans is encoded by the GDF15 gene. It is a member of the TGF-β superfamily, which is a group of proteins known to regulate cellular functions such as proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis.

Function

GDF15 is a secreted protein that is expressed in many tissues throughout the body. It is known to play a role in regulating inflammatory and apoptotic pathways during tissue injury and in disease states. GDF15 is highly expressed in the liver, placenta, heart, and in certain phases of fetal development. It is also expressed in response to tissue injury and certain disease states.

Clinical Significance

GDF15 has been identified as a potential biomarker for a number of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, and metabolic syndrome. Elevated levels of GDF15 have been associated with poor prognosis in patients with malignant melanoma, colorectal cancer, and pancreatic cancer. In cardiovascular disease, GDF15 is thought to have a protective role, and its levels are increased in response to myocardial infarction and heart failure.

Research

Research into GDF15 is ongoing, with studies investigating its role in various disease states and its potential as a therapeutic target. For example, GDF15 has been shown to have anti-obesity effects in mice, suggesting it may have potential as a treatment for obesity and related metabolic disorders.

See Also

• Transforming growth factor beta
• Cardiovascular disease
• Cancer
• Metabolic syndrome

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