tuumorinekroositekijän

Tuumorinekroositekijä, often abbreviated as TNF, is a protein that plays a crucial role in the body's immune response. It is a cytokine, a type of signaling molecule secreted by cells of the immune system. TNF is primarily produced by macrophages, a type of white blood cell that engulfs and digests cellular debris, foreign substances, microbes, and cancer cells.

The primary function of TNF is to induce inflammation. It signals other immune cells to migrate to the site of infection or injury, promoting a localized inflammatory response. This inflammation is essential for fighting off pathogens and initiating tissue repair. However, dysregulated TNF production can contribute to chronic inflammatory diseases.

In the context of tumors, TNF can have a dual role. It can promote tumor cell death (necrosis) by triggering apoptosis, a programmed cell death pathway. This anti-tumor effect is a part of the immune system's surveillance mechanism. Conversely, TNF can also support tumor growth and metastasis under certain circumstances. This is often mediated by its pro-inflammatory actions, which can create an environment conducive to tumor survival and spread, and by its ability to stimulate the production of other growth factors.

Due to its significant role in inflammation and disease, TNF is a target for therapeutic interventions. Medications that block TNF, known as TNF inhibitors, are used to treat various autoimmune and inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis. These therapies aim to reduce excessive inflammation by neutralizing the effects of TNF.