tumor necrosis factor-α

Tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine produced primarily by activated macrophages and other immune cells. It plays a central role in inflammation and immune regulation. In the context of disease treatment, most clinical applications target inhibition of TNF-α rather than administration of the cytokine itself. However, in experimental settings such as cancer therapy (e.g., intratumoral injection for pancreatic cancer), recombinant or adenovector-delivered TNF-α has been investigated for its ability to induce tumor cell death and enhance immune responses[6][8]. The mechanism involves binding to specific receptors on target cells, leading to activation of signaling pathways that can result in apoptosis or necroptosis.

Other names

Tumor Necrosis Factor-alphaCachectinTNFalpha