GDF11 Is a Novel Protective Factor Against Vascular Calcification

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Biology
• Cellular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Vascular calcification (VC) is an active, cell-mediated process involving vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs).
• Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11), a TGF-β family member, is known to inhibit apoptosis and osteogenic differentiation, potentially stabilizing atherosclerotic plaques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between serum GDF11 levels and coronary artery calcium score (CACS).
• To determine the effect of GDF11 on in vitro vascular calcification models.

Main Methods:

• Coronary artery calcium score (CACS) was measured in participants with GDF11 measurements using computed tomography angiography.
• Human aortic smooth muscle cells (HASMCs) were induced to calcify using osteogenic medium (OM).
• The effect of exogenous GDF11 on OM-induced calcification and HASMC processes was assessed.

Main Results:

• CACS was negatively correlated with serum GDF11 levels.
• GDF11 was a significant predictor of elevated CACS, outranked by age, triglycerides, C-reactive protein, and hypertension.
• Exogenous GDF11 significantly inhibited OM-induced calcification by suppressing osteogenic differentiation, phenotypic transformation, and apoptosis in HASMCs.

Conclusions:

• GDF11 plays a protective role in reducing vascular calcification.
• GDF11 represents a potential therapeutic target for the intervention and treatment of vascular calcification.