Growth differentiation factor 15 as a useful biomarker for mitochondrial disorders

In this study, we investigated whether GDF‐15 is a more useful biomarker for MDs than several conventional biomarkers. MethodsWe measured the serum levels of GDF‐15 and fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF‐21), as well as other biomarkers, in 48 MD patients and in 146 healthy controls in Japan. GDF‐15 and FGF‐21 concentrations were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay and compared with lactate, pyruvate, creatine kinase, and the lactate‐to‐pyruvate ratio. We calculated sensitivity and specificity and also evaluated the correlation based on two rating scales, including the Newcastle Mitochondrial Disease Rating Scale (NMDAS). ResultsMean GDF‐15 concentration was 6‐fold higher in MD patients compared to healthy controls (2,711 ± 2,459 pg/ml vs 462.5 ± 141.0 pg/mL; p < 0.001). Using a receiver operating characteristic curve, the area under the curve was significantly higher for GDF‐15 than FGF‐21 and other conventional biomarkers. Our date suggest that GDF‐15 is the most useful biomarker for MDs of the biomarkers examined, and it is associated with MD severity. InterpretationOur results suggest that measurement of GDF‐15 is the most useful first‐line test to indicate the patients who have the mitochondrial respiratory chain deficiency. Ann Neurol 2015
Source: Annals of Neurology - Category: Neurology Authors: Tags: Research Article Source Type: research