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TNF-α

Meaning

TNF-α, or Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha, is a pivotal pro-inflammatory cytokine, a small signaling protein, secreted primarily by macrophages and other immune cells in response to infection or tissue injury. It is a critical mediator of systemic inflammation and the acute phase response, playing a dual role in immune surveillance and pathology. While essential for host defense and tumor cell apoptosis, chronic or excessive TNF-α activity is a major contributor to systemic low-grade inflammation, insulin resistance, and the catabolic state associated with chronic disease and accelerated aging. Clinical modulation of TNF-α is a therapeutic target in autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.