Tumor necrosis factor

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a cytokine which can cause apoptosis. TNFα is implicated in tumor regression, septic shock, inflammation and cachexia (wasting syndrome). It is involved in the regulation of the immune cells. TNF is a transmembrane homotrimer. The soluble TNF is produced by cleavage by the metalloprotease TNFα-converting enzyme (TACE or ADAM17 see A Disintegrin And Metalloproteinase).