NCIt definition : A monoclonal antibody directed against the human growth differentiation factor 15
(GDF15; MIC-1), with potential anti-cachexia activity. Upon administration, ponsegromab
targets and binds to GDF15, thereby preventing the binding of GDF15 to its receptor
glial-cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) family receptor alpha-like (GFRAL) and
blocking GDF15/GFRAL-mediated signaling. This may abrogate loss of appetite and uncontrolled
weight loss associated with high serum levels of GDF15. GDF15, a stress response cytokine
and divergent member of the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily,
plays a key role in the regulation of body weight through central mechanisms. High
GDF15 plasma levels, as seen in individuals with advanced cancers, are associated
with loss of body mass.;
Semantic type(s)