GDF-15, a future therapeutic target of glucolipid metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease

Growth and differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) was discovered as a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily and the serum level of GDF-15 was significantly correlated with glucolipid metabolic disorders (GLMD) and cardiovascular diseases. In 2017, a novel identified receptor of GDF-15-glial-derived neurotrophic factor receptor alpha-like (GFRAL) was found to regulate energy homeostasis (such as obesity, diabetes and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)). The function of GDF-15/GFRAL in suppressing appetite, enhancing glucose/lipid metabolism and vascular remodeling has been gradually revealed. These effects make it a potential therapeutic target for GLMD and vascular diseases. In this narrative review, we included and reviewed 121 articles by screening 524 articles from literature database. We primarily focused on the function of GDF-15 and its role in GLMD/cardiovascular diseases and discuss its potential clinical application.

Automated summary

Growth and differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15), a member of the TGF-beta superfamily, has been found to be significantly correlated with glucolipid metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases. The recently discovered receptor GFRAL has been shown to regulate energy homeostasis and have positive effects on appetite suppression, metabolic enhancement, and vascular remodeling. Therefore, GDF-15 holds potential as a therapeutic target for glucolipid metabolic disorders and vascular diseases.