GDF15 and systemic lupus erythematosus: Furthermore, our recent data revealed that GDF15 functions as a suppressor of lymphoproliferation, B- and T-cell expansion, and autoreactive plasma-cell maturation in an autoimmune model, which resulted in reduced anti-DNA-directed autoantibody production, possibly through TLR-7/-9 hyperresponsiveness in the exaggerated type I interferon (IFN-I) signature observed in Gdf15-deficient lupus-prone mice [17].