Evaluation of GDF11 And Lipid Profile in Diabetic Dyslipidemia

Abstract

Background

 Diabetic dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications. Growth differentiation factor 11 (GDF11), a member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) superfamily, has a role in metabolic regulation, vascular health, and aging, but its role in diabetic dyslipidemia remains unclear.

Patients and Methods:

A comparative analysis was conducted between diabetic patients with dyslipidemia and those without. Serum GDF11 concentrations and lipid parameters were measured, along with additional markers of oxidative stress and inflammation. Statistical analysis was performed to assess group differences and correlations.

 Result: GDF11 shows a strong positive correlation with total cholesterol and triglycerides in diabetic patients, suggesting a role in lipid abnormalities, while no significant association is seen with HDL or LDL. A modest positive correlation is also observed between GDF11 and AST, indicating a possible link to liver involvement. Hematological findings reveal distinct patterns between diabetic patients with and without dyslipidemia. Those without dyslipidemia exhibit higher WBCs, granulocytes, lymphocytes, and platelets, reflecting greater inflammatory and immune activity. In contrast, patients with dyslipidemia have elevated erythrocytic indices (hemoglobin, RBC count, hematocrit, and MCHC), indicating altered red cell production. Additionally, RDW and platelet indices are higher in the non-dyslipidemia group, suggesting increased variability in cell size. Overall, dyslipidemia in diabetes is associated with enhanced erythropoietic changes, while non-dyslipidemic patients display stronger inflammatory and platelet responses

Conclusion:   

Higher GDF11 levels are strongly associated with higher LDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. GDF11 also rises with HDL, but less strongly compared to LDL/TC. This suggests that GDF11 may play a role in lipid metabolism regulation, possibly being more tightly linked to lipid markers (LDL, TG, TC) than protective HDL.