Growth Differentiation Factor 11 (GDF11) is expressed in many tissues, including skeletal muscle, pancreas, kidney, nervous system, and retina, among others. GDF11 circulating levels and protein content in tissues are quite variable and are affected by pathological conditions or age.1 GDF11 also known as Bone Morphogenetic Protein 11 (BMP-11), mRNA is translated in a precursor protein, which is processed by specific proteases generating the mature GDF11 (C-terminal, 12.5 kDa) and the pro-domain (Nterminal, 30.1 kDa). GDF11 shares 89% amino acid sequence homology with GDF8, however GDF8 expression in human tissues is restricted to cardiac and skeletal muscle,2 while GDF11 is expressed in all tissues.3 Although there is high homology between mature GDF8 and GDF11, the pro-domains of both proteins share only 54% homology. The pro-domain is fundamental for proper protein folding, disulfide bond formation and exportation of the homodimers,4,5 suggesting differences in posttranslational process.
Synonyms: GDF11 Growth/differentiation factor 11 Bonemorphogenetic protein11 (bmp11)
Storage: -20C
Application: The antibody may be used in various immunochemical techniques including Immunoblotting. Detection of the Pro GDF11 band by Immunoblotting is specifically inhibited by the immunogen.
Biochem Physiol Actions: GDF11 uses the canonical receptors and the SMAD proteins for signaling. The GDF11 dimer (a disulfide-linked homodimer of carboxy-terminal fragments) binds the activin receptors type II A or B (ActRIIA, ActRIIB), proteins with serine/threonine kinase activity.