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Signalling pathways of the TNF superfamily: a double-edged sword

Bharat B Aggarwal1

  • 1Cytokine Research Section, Department of Bioimmunotherapy, University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Boulevard, Box 143, Houston, Texas, USA. aggarwal@mdanderson.org

Nature Reviews. Immunology
|September 2, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Tumor necrosis factors (TNFs) are potent cytokines that can kill tumor cells and aid tumor regression. This research explores the TNF superfamily

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Tumor necrosis factors (TNFs), first identified in 1984, exhibit cytotoxicity towards tumor cells and can induce tumor regression in mice.
  • The TNF superfamily comprises 19 members that interact with 29 distinct receptors, regulating crucial physiological processes.
  • TNFs play a dual role, influencing normal functions like immune responses and hematopoiesis, yet also implicated in diseases such as tumorigenesis, autoimmune disorders, and septic shock.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the multifaceted roles of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily in both normal physiological functions and pathological conditions.
  • To highlight the therapeutic potential and challenges associated with targeting TNF signaling pathways.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of research on TNF superfamily members and their receptors.
  • Analysis of the involvement of TNFs in various biological processes and diseases.

Main Results:

  • TNF superfamily members are involved in diverse cellular processes including proliferation, survival, differentiation, and apoptosis.
  • Dysregulation of TNF signaling is implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and inflammatory conditions.
  • Therapeutic strategies targeting TNF have shown success in treating autoimmune diseases.

Conclusions:

  • Tumor necrosis factors (TNFs) are critical regulators with diverse biological functions, acting as 'double-edged swords' in health and disease.
  • Targeting TNF pathways offers therapeutic opportunities but requires careful consideration of their complex roles.

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