[Effects of growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) on neurological systems, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer
1School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai 200433, China.
Abstract:
Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) is a member of the transforming growth factor beta superfamily. GDF-15 expression is dramatically upregulated during acute brain injury, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and inflammation, suggesting its potential value as a disease biomarker. It has been suggested that GDF-15 has neurotropic effects in the nervous system. Our studies showed that GDF-15 modulated the expression of neuronal K+ and Ca2+ ion channels and increased the release of excitatory transmitter in the medial prefrontal cortex of mice. GDF-15 is also involved in the complex modulation of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Here, we reviewed studies involving the modulation of GDF-15 expression and its mechanisms, the primary pathological and physiological functions of GDF-15 in neurological and cardiovascular systems, and its role in cancer progression. The biological effects and the values of GDF-15 in basic research and clinical applications were also addressed.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Role of Hematopoietic Growth Factors
Thrombopoietin (TPO), mainly released by the liver,...
Mitogens and the Cell Cycle
Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply
Regulation of Hematopoietic Stem Cells
Differentiation of Common Myeloid Progenitor Cells


