Human Growth/differentiation factor 11(GDF11)

Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11), also known as bone morphogenetic protein 11 (BMP-11), is a protein that is encoded by the GDF11 gene in humans. It is a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) family of proteins and acts as a cytokine, meaning that it communicates between cells to regulate various functions.

GDF11 is found in a wide range of tissues and is involved in the development of the nervous system, blood vessels, and other organs. It may also play a role in regulating aging. GDF11 levels decrease to zero in humans at an average age of 73.71 years and the cessation of GDF11 production has been linked to the death of stem cells, which are essential for the maintenance and repair of various tissues.

GDF11 has been shown to have a wide range of beneficial effects, including the improvement of outcomes in neurodegenerative and neurovascular diseases, the increase of skeletal muscle volume and strength, and the reversal of senescence. It has also been suggested that GDF11 may play a role in maximum lifespan determination. There is ongoing research into the potential use of GDF11 in clinical applications, including the repair of stroke damage in humans. GDF11 has been found to be down-regulated in pancreatic cancer and to have a protective effect against the development and progression of this disease.

GDF11 has been found to be up-regulated in colorectal cancer and to have a negative effect on patient outcomes, including higher rates of lymph node metastasis and lower survival rates. However, these findings are not universally consistent and further research is needed to fully understand the role of GDF11 in cancer development and progression.