GDF-11/BMP-11: Proteins and Enzymes

GDF-11 (Growth Differentiation Factor 11), also known as BMP-11, is closely related to GDF-8. It is widely expressed during development and plays a role in palate, vertebrae, tail, kidney, and olfactory neuron formation. GDF-11 signals through Activin type II receptors and induces phosphorylation of Smad2 to mediate axial patterning. Systemic GDF-11 levels decline with age, and administration of GDF-11 can reverse age-related cardiac hypertrophy, restore genomic integrity and muscle stem cell health, and enhance angiogenesis and neurogenesis.