Tumor necrosis factor-alpha

Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) is a cell signaling protein (cytokine) involved in systemic inflammation and is one of the cytokines that make up the acute phase reaction. It is produced chiefly by activated macrophages, although it can be produced by many other cell types as well.

Structure

The primary structure of TNFα is a type II transmembrane protein with homotrimeric configuration. The soluble form of the cytokine is a homotrimer non-covalently linked, and it is this form that performs the role of signaling molecule.

Function

TNFα is involved in the regulation of a wide spectrum of biological processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, lipid metabolism, and coagulation. Its primary role is in the regulation of immune cells. TNFα is able to induce apoptotic cell death, to induce inflammation, and to inhibit tumorigenesis and viral replication.

Clinical significance

Dysregulation of TNFα production has been implicated in a variety of human diseases including Alzheimer's disease, cancer, major depression, psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Though controversial, studies of depression and IBD are currently being linked to TNFα levels.

See also

• Cytokine
• Inflammation
• Macrophage
• Apoptosis
• Alzheimer's disease
• Cancer
• Major depression
• Psoriasis
• Inflammatory bowel disease

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