Objective To have more insight into roles of growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF15) in digestive tumor. Method The basic and clinical studies on the GDF15 in the digestive tumors published were searched in the databases for summarizing the latest advances on this issue. Results The GDF15, a novel member of transforming growth factor-β superfamily, played the diverse roles in the progress of the various diseases. The increasing number of evidence indicated that the GDF15 was associated with the diagnosis and prognostication of the digestive tumors, eg: colorectal cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, and might serve as a potential biomarker and therapeutic target for the multiple digestive tumors. Conclusions Current basic and clinical studies provide some evidences that GDF15 plays a role in digestive tumors. Further studies are needed to elucidate its roles and molecular mechanisms in different stages of diseases.
Objective To summarize the research progress of copper and its derivatives in gastrointestinal tumors in recent years, aiming to provide reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment decisions. Method The literatures related to copper homeostasis and copper death in recent years were read and summarized, and the research progress on the role of copper in cancer and copper applications in cancer diagnosis and treatment was reviewed. Results Copper was an essential trace element involved in a variety of basic biological processes. Elevated levels of copper in serum and tissues were associated with the development of tumors. As the mechanisms of copper action in various gastrointestinal tumors were being investigated, the use of copper and related derivatives in the treatment of cancer patients had become a new strategy. Conclusion Copper and its derivatives have a promising future in the treatment of gastrointestinal tumors, but their benefits in clinical patients still need to be demonstrated in numerous clinical trials.