Growth differentiation factor 15 predicts physical function impairment in Spanish older adults: a real-world...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Biomarkers
• Physical Function

Background:

• Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15) is an emerging biomarker for disease burden.
• Few studies have investigated the association between GDF15 and objectively measured physical function impairment in older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cross-sectional and longitudinal association between serum GDF15 levels and impaired physical function in adults aged 65 years and older.

Main Methods:

• The Seniors-ENRICA-2 cohort included 2481 older adults.
• Serum GDF15 was measured at baseline. Physical function was assessed at baseline and after 2.2 years using validated tools for lower-extremity performance, agility, mobility, weakness, and frailty.
• Logistic regression analyses were performed, adjusting for potential confounders.

Main Results:

• Higher GDF15 levels were significantly associated with prevalent and incident impaired physical function across all assessed measures, including lower-extremity performance, agility, mobility, weakness, and frailty.
• Odds ratios per 25% increment in GDF15 ranged from 1.06 to 1.24 in cross-sectional analyses and 1.08 to 1.35 in prospective analyses.
• These associations remained consistent even in participants without cardiovascular disease or diabetes.

Conclusions:

• Elevated serum GDF15 levels are associated with both existing and developing physical function impairments in older adults.
• GDF15 shows potential as a convenient biomarker for identifying older individuals at risk of functional decline.
• Further research is warranted to explore GDF15's underlying mechanisms, its role in risk prediction, and potential therapeutic interventions.