The mysterious protein spiking 10,000x during pregnancy.

GDF-15 is the protein that spikes 10,000-fold during pregnancy, but its role extends far beyond gestation. It acts as a primary signaling molecule between the body and the brain, functioning as the prototypical brain-body communication axis. When cells experience energy stress, they release GDF-15, which travels to the brainstem to coordinate a response of energy conservation and mobilization. Understanding this mechanism is key to grasping how the body manages systemic energy resistance. This clip is from episode 260 with Dr. Martin Picard and Dr. Nirosha Murugan. Watch the full episode on the Mind & Matter YouTube channel for the complete discussion on mitochondrial health and signaling. For more deep dives, read the newsletter at https://mindandmatter.substack.com/ #science #biology #mitochondria #healthscience #metabolism