Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) is a cytokine produced primarily by monocytes and macrophages. It is found in synovial cells and macrophages in the tissues.The primary role of TNFα is in the regulation of immune cells. TNFα is able to induce apoptotic cell death, to induce inflammation, and to inhibit tumorigenesis and viral replication. Dysregulation of TNFα production has been implicated in a variety of human diseases, including major depression, Alzheimer's disease and cancer. Recombinant TNFα is used as an immunostimulant under the INN tasonermin. TNFα can be produced ectopically in the setting of malignancy and parallels parathyroid hormone both in causing secondary hypercalcemia and in the cancers with which excessive production is associated.

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