Antibodies to human gdf8

Abstract

An isolated human or humanized antibody or a fragment thereof which specifically binds to Growth and Differentiation Factor-8 (GDF8) and blocks GDF8 activity, is provided. The antibody or antibody fragment is useful in a therapeutic method for treating a condition or disorder which is ameliorated or improved by inhibition of GDF8, such as loss of muscle tissue, associated with muscle dystrophy, muscle atrophy, muscle wasting syndrome, sarcopenia or cachexia; impaired metabolism or type II diabetes to improve glucose homeostasis, decrease fat mass, increase insulin sensitivity, improve kidney function and / or decrease fat accumulation; or a condition characterized by bone loss, for example, associated with osteoporosis, osteopenia, osteoarthritis and / or bone fractures.