Search

GDF15 (growth differentiation factor 15), also known as macrophage inhibitory cytokine 1 (MIC-1), is a circulating protein involved in the regulation of energy balance and weight control. Elevated levels of GDF15 have been associated with cachexia and reduced survival rates in cancer patients. Through the activation of the GFRAL (GDNF-family receptor α-like)-RET (Rearranged during Transfection) signaling pathway, GDF15 can induce weight loss, making it a potential target for treating cachexia. Currently, there are no approved antibody drugs specifically targeting GDF15 for cancer cachexia treatment. However, efforts have been made to develop antibody-based therapeutics against this emerging target. In this study, we generated a monoclonal antibody KY-NAb-GDF15 against GDF15 that effectively blocks downstream signaling mediated by GFRAL upon stimulation by GDF15. This antibody demonstrates robust neutralizing activity and exhibits high binding specificity. Importantly, our findings indicate that this antibody holds promise in alleviating cancer-induced cachexia and mitigating chemotherapy-induced weight loss, thereby offering significant therapeutic potential for managing cancer cachexia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The postpartum period is critical for maternal health status after childbirth. The traditional Chinese postpartum confinement practice, "doing-the-month", is considered especially effective in helping mothers recover during the postpartum period. However, research has not provided evidence to confirm its benefits. Postpartum depression is a common postpartum disease that seriously threatens maternal health. The systematic review aims to explore the association between "doing-the-month" and postpartum depression in the Chinese female population and to provide a scientific foundation for evidence-based postpartum maternal care. Methods: Five databases (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, PsycINFO, and Web of Science) were searched according to the protocol (INPALSY202320102). The JBI assessment tool was used to assess the quality of the included studies. Results: Sixteen quantitative studies from China and Chinese female immigrants in other countries, including 15 cross-sectional studies and 1 randomized controlled study, were identified. Four studies indicated that "doing-the-month" rituals reduced postpartum depression risk while 2 studies showed opposite results; 10 studies did not show a significant association between "doing-the-month" practices and postpartum depression. Conclusion: There is conflicting evidence regarding the association between "doing-the-month" and the likelihood of developing postpartum depression. Some studies have explored the impact of family ties, particular rituals, and specific stressors during the postpartum period on the occurrence of postpartum depression in Chinese women. According to current research, "doing-the-month" practice failed to show a significant protective effect on postpartum depression in the Chinese maternal population. Evidence-based medical health education for the Chinese postpartum female community is urgently needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]