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GDF15: A Novel Insight Into Its Biology and Therapeutic Potential in Obesity
Kamil Ahmed1, Asia Saturnino2, Paolo Pozzilli2,3
1Queen Mary University of London, London, UK, qmul.ac.uk.
Journal of Diabetes Research
|July 22, 2026
Summary
Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15), a stress cytokine, regulates appetite. Its receptor, GFRAL, reveals its role in sickness anorexia and therapeutic potential for obesity treatment.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolism
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is a stress-responsive cytokine.
- Previously considered a disease biomarker, GDF15 is now recognized as a key regulator of appetite homeostasis.
- The discovery of its exclusive receptor, GFRAL, highlighted GDF15's role in sickness-associated anorexia.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in GDF15 biology.
- To explore the evolutionary, mechanistic, and translational aspects of GDF15.
- To emphasize the emerging therapeutic potential of GDF15 in obesity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review integrating evolutionary, mechanistic, and translational data on GDF15.
- Analysis of GDF15's role in appetite regulation and sickness-associated anorexia.
- Examination of GDF15's interaction with its receptor GFRAL.
Main Results:
- GDF15 is a critical mediator of appetite homeostasis and sickness anorexia.
- Established weight-loss agents modulate circulating GDF15 levels.
- GDF15 agonists demonstrate significant weight loss in preclinical and early clinical studies.
Conclusions:
- GDF15 and its receptor GFRAL have significant clinical implications for metabolic disorders.
- GDF15 represents a promising therapeutic target for obesity management.
- Further research into GDF15 biology will advance obesity treatment strategies.
