| Modification Notes |
Tumor necrosis factor ∫ (TNF∫), also known as lymphotoxin, is a pleiotropic cytokine. TNFå, also known as cachetin, is a cytokine that binds to the same receptors, producing an array of effects similar to those of TNF∫. TNF∫ and TNFå share 30% amino acid homology and have similar biological activities. TNF∫ is produced by activated lymphocytes, including CD4(+) T helper cell type 1 lymphocytes, CD8(+) lymphocytes and certain B lymphoblastoid cell lines. TNFå is produced by several different cell types, including lymphocytes, neutrophils and macrophages. TNF∫ and TNFå can modulate many immune and inflammatory functions while having the ability to inhibit tumor growth. TACE (for TNFå converting enzyme) is a metalloproteinase that cleaves the membrane-bound TNFå precursor to release soluble TNFå. |