tsütokiini

Tsütokiini, also known as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), is a protein that plays a crucial role in the body's immune response. It is produced by various immune cells, including macrophages and T cells, in response to infection, injury, or other forms of cellular stress. TNF-alpha is a pro-inflammatory cytokine, meaning it promotes inflammation, which is the body's natural response to injury or infection.

TNF-alpha has several functions in the body. It helps to activate other immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, to fight off infections. It also plays a role in the regulation of the immune system by promoting the differentiation of T cells and the activation of natural killer cells. Additionally, TNF-alpha has been implicated in the development of certain autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis, where it contributes to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.

The production of TNF-alpha is tightly regulated to prevent excessive inflammation, which can be harmful to the body. When TNF-alpha levels become dysregulated, it can lead to various health issues. For example, high levels of TNF-alpha have been linked to cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, and certain types of cancer. In some cases, TNF-alpha inhibitors, such as etanercept and adalimumab, are used to treat conditions characterized by excessive inflammation, like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease.

Research on TNF-alpha continues to uncover its complex roles in health and disease. Understanding its mechanisms and regulation is essential for developing targeted therapies for a wide range of inflammatory and autoimmune conditions.