The Immateriality of Circulating GDF11

Researchers studied GDF11, a protein involved in cell signaling, in blood samples from mice and people of different ages. They used more than one laboratory test because a common test also detects myostatin, a related muscle protein. More specific testing did not show a clear age-related drop in GDF11. The study also found no reliable evidence that blood GDF11 reflects better muscle health or acts as a general rejuvenating signal.

What this means for you: This does not support buying GDF11 products or treatments marketed as anti-aging. The results are limited by difficult blood measurements, and studies on GDF11 have produced conflicting findings.