TNFbeta
TNFbeta, also referred to as lymphotoxin alpha (LTα), is a cytokine belonging to the tumour necrosis factor family. It is encoded by the TNF genes situated on chromosome 6p21.31. TNFbeta is produced primarily by activated T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and other immune cells. The protein is typically expressed as a homotrimer in soluble form, but can also exist as a membrane-bound trimer that engages in cell–cell interactions.
TNFbeta signals through two receptor complexes. The homotrimeric LTα binds the lymphotoxin β receptor (LTβR), initiating pathways
Functionally, TNFbeta plays a key role in lymphoid organ development, particularly in the formation of secondary
Therapeutic strategies targeting the TNFbeta pathway are under investigation. Antagonists of LTβR signalling may ameliorate chronic