Tumor necrosis factor-alpha

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In medicine, tumor necrosis factor-alpha is a "serum glycoprotein produced by activated macrophages and other mammalian mononuclear leukocytes. It has necrotizing activity against tumor cell lines and increases ability to reject tumor transplants. Also known as TNF-alpha, it is only 30% homologous to tnf-beta (lymphotoxin), but they share TNF receptors.[1]

Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors

  • TNFR-Fc fusion protein (etanercept - pronounced et a ner' set) blocks the activity of TNF-alpha.[2] Etanercept is used for the treatment of autoimmune diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis.[3]
  • Infliximab (pronounced in flix' i mab)is a chimeric monoclonal antibody that blocks the action of TNF-alpha by binding to it.[4]

Adverse effects

Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors increase susceptibility to serious infections.[5]

References