We think that the protective effect of GDF15 could be counteracted by the activation of the NF-κB/periostin axis in diabetic ob/ob mice during DN progression since the expression levels of the mature form of GDF15 were found to decrease in the kidneys of mice with advanced renal disease, high levels of periostin and activated p65. The gene discussed is NFKB1; the disease is liver dysplastic nodule.