Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) biology and cell death

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Updated: Jul 10, 2026

Determination of the Relative Potency of an Anti-TNF Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) by Neutralizing TNF Using an In Vitro Bioanalytical Method
16:07

Determination of the Relative Potency of an Anti-TNF Monoclonal Antibody (mAb) by Neutralizing TNF Using an In Vitro Bioanalytical Method

Published on: September 16, 2017

Loris Bertazza1, Simone Mocellin

  • 1Department of Oncological and Surgical Sciences, University of Padova, via Giustiniani 2, 35128 Padova, Italy.

Frontiers in Bioscience : a Journal and Virtual Library
|November 6, 2007
PubMed

Insights

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) is a cytokine used in cancer therapy, but its precise role remains debated. Understanding how TNF signaling determines cell fate is key to maximizing its anticancer potential.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) was the first cytokine utilized in human cancer therapy.
  • Its therapeutic efficacy is debated due to complex downstream signaling pathways.
  • TNF receptor engagement can lead to diverse cellular outcomes, including survival or death.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize the molecular biology of TNF.
  • To critically evaluate conflicting preclinical and clinical findings on TNF in cancer.
  • To elucidate the mechanisms of TNF-induced cell death for therapeutic advancement.

Main Methods:

  • Review of fundamental molecular biology of TNF.
  • Analysis of preclinical and clinical data on TNF, tumor biology, and anticancer therapy.
  • Discussion of advances in understanding TNF-driven programmed cell death.

Main Results:

  • TNF's role in cancer therapy is complex and not fully understood.
  • Conflicting data exists regarding TNF's impact on tumor biology and treatment outcomes.
  • Significant progress has been made in the last decade, yet detailed mechanisms of TNF-induced cell fate remain elusive.

Conclusions:

  • A comprehensive understanding of TNF's molecular biology is essential for interpreting its role in cancer.
  • Further research into TNF-mediated cell death pathways is crucial.
  • Elucidating these mechanisms will enhance the anticancer applications of TNF.

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