What is GDF11 Protein

In the vast realm of molecular biology, certain proteins play pivotal roles in regulating various physiological processes within the human body. One such protein that has garnered significant attention in recent years is GDF11, or Growth Differentiation Factor 11. GDF11 stands as a pivotal member of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily.

What is GDF11 Protein?

GDF11, encoded by a gene on human chromosome 12, shares structural homology with myostatin, underscoring its significance in cellular regulation. This circulating protein plays a critical role in cellular growth, differentiation, and development, positioning itself as a linchpin in various physiological processes.

The Function of GDF11 Protein

The primary function of GDF11 revolves around its regulatory prowess in tissue development and regeneration. Research indicates its involvement in modulating stem cell activity, particularly in maintaining stem cell quiescence and governing cellular senescence—a process intrinsically linked to aging.

Notably, GDF11 has been implicated in cardiac function, with studies revealing a decline in GDF11 levels with age. Experimental administration of GDF11 in aged mice showcases its rejuvenating effects on the heart, hinting at therapeutic avenues for age-related cardiac issues.

GDF11-Related Diseases

While GDF11 presents a promising avenue for therapeutic interventions, its role in diseases is complex. Studies suggest a correlation between GDF11 and age-related conditions, particularly neurodegenerative disorders and cardiovascular diseases.

• Alzheimer's Disease

In the realm of neurodegenerative disorders, GDF11 emerges as a potential player. Preclinical studies suggest that GDF11 administration may have neuroprotective effects, offering a glimmer of hope in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.

• Cardiac Hypertrophy

On the cardiovascular front, GDF11 is linked to age-related cardiac hypertrophy, characterized by abnormal cell enlargement. Intriguingly, reinstating GDF11 levels in animal models reverses cardiac hypertrophy, presenting GDF11 as a potential therapeutic target for heart-related conditions in the aging populace.

GDF11 Related Signaling Pathways

Understanding the signaling pathways intertwined with GDF11 is pivotal in unraveling its multifaceted functions. GDF11 primarily signals through activin receptor type IIB (ActRIIB) and activin-like kinase 4 (ALK4), initiating downstream cascades that modulate gene expression and govern cellular processes.

• SMAD Pathway

A central player in GDF11 signaling is the SMAD pathway. Upon binding, GDF11 activates receptors, leading to the phosphorylation and nuclear translocation of SMAD2 and SMAD3. This intricate dance in the nucleus regulates gene expression, orchestrating cell fate determination and tissue development.

Figure 1. Processing, extracellular regulation, and signaling mechanisms of GDF11 and MSTN. (Suh, J., et al. 2020)

• MAPK Pathways

Parallelly, GDF11 impacts mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways. These pathways, integral to cell proliferation and survival, further highlight the complexity of GDF11's regulatory functions in diverse cellular processes.

Applications of GDF11 in Biomedical Research

The versatile roles of GDF11 in tissue development and disease modulation make it an enticing candidate for biomedical research, offering potential applications across various domains.

• Regenerative Medicine

GDF11's ability to regulate stem cells positions it as a key player in regenerative medicine. Exploring its potential in promoting tissue repair and regeneration opens avenues for innovative therapeutic strategies in the context of age-related degenerative conditions.

• Cardiovascular Therapeutics

In cardiovascular therapeutics, GDF11 emerges as a potential ally. Ongoing clinical studies explore the use of GDF11 or GDF11-related compounds in addressing age-related cardiac issues, capitalizing on its rejuvenating effects observed in the heart.

• Neurological Disorders

The neuroprotective effects observed in preclinical studies propel GDF11 into the spotlight as a potential therapeutic agent for neurological disorders. Unraveling the intricate mechanisms through which GDF11 influences brain health holds promise for combating neurodegenerative conditions.

• Anti-Aging Interventions

The decline in GDF11 levels with age sparks interest in its potential as an anti-aging intervention. While still in its infancy, research into GDF11-based anti-aging strategies showcases its potential to mitigate the effects of aging on various tissues.

GDF11, with its intricate involvement in cellular regulation, stands at the forefront of biomedical research. From unraveling its signal pathways to exploring therapeutic applications, the journey into the realm of GDF11 promises groundbreaking insights that could reshape our approach to aging, disease, and tissue regeneration. As researchers delve deeper, the enigma of GDF11 continues to unfold, offering a tapestry of possibilities for the future of molecular medicine.

Recommended Products for GDF11 Protein

Cat.#	Species	Product name	Source (Host)	Tag
GDF11-1078H	Human	Active Recombinant Human GDF11	E.coli	Met
GDF11-38H	Human	Active Recombinant Human GDF11, His-tagged	E.coli	His
GDF11-242	Human	Recombinant Human Growth Differentiation Factor 11	E.coli	N/A
GDF11-4820H	Human	Recombinant Human GDF11 Protein, GST-tagged	Wheat Germ	GST
GDF11-2952H	Human	Recombinant Human GDF11 protein, His-SUMO-tagged	E.coli	His-SUMO
GDF11-3395H	Human	Recombinant Human GDF11 Protein (Asn299-Ser407)	Mammalian cells	Tag Free
GDF11-1079M	Mouse	Active Recombinant Mouse GDF11	E.coli	Met
GDF11-6284M	Mouse	Recombinant Mouse GDF11 Protein	Mammalian Cell	His
Gdf11-1080R	Rat	Active Recombinant Rat Gdf11 protein	E.coli	N/A
GDF11-104H	Human/Mouse/Rat	Active Recombinant Human/Mouse/Rat GDF11 Protein	E.coli

Reference

• Suh, J., Lee, YS. Similar sequences but dissimilar biological functions of GDF11 and myostatin. Exp Mol Med. 2020, 52: 1673–1693.