cytokine

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) is a potent cytokine with a myriad of innate immune anti-tumor properties. TNF-α has a critical role in the bone and cartilage damage associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). TNF-α may be involved in the pathogenesis and/or progression of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). TNF-α is expressed in myocardium during compensated pressure-overload hypertrophy and contributes to postischemic myocardial dysfunction. The serum levels of TNF-α were also significantly elevated in active WG (Wegener’s granulomatosis) in the late stages of HIV-associated disease and in the spinal cord of arthritic patients.