Growth differentiation factor-15 and its role in diabetes and cardiovascular disease

Cytokine Growth Factor Rev. 2021 Feb:57:11-18. doi: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2020.11.002. Epub 2020 Dec 1.

Abstract

Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) is cytokine involved in the regulation of multiple systems. Because it has regularly been shown to be increased in cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes, it has been suggested that GDF-15 could be used as a biomarker for these diseases and their severity. However, several studies have demonstrated that GDF-15 has a protective role in regulation of inflammation, endothelial cell function, insulin sensitivity, weight gain, and is cardioprotective in myocardial infarction (MI). While GDF-15 has been implicated in the pathophysiology of many conditions including cancer, this review focuses on the potential functions of GDF-15 and signaling pathways implicated in its role regulating metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and the cardiovascular system.

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease; Diabetes; GDF-15.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers
  • Cardiovascular Diseases*
  • Diabetes Mellitus*
  • Growth Differentiation Factor 15
  • Humans
  • Myocardial Infarction

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • Growth Differentiation Factor 15