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Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Screening Assays to Characterize Novel Endothelial Regulators Involved in the Inflammatory Response
Published on: September 15, 2017
Role of TNF-alpha in vascular dysfunction
Hanrui Zhang1, Yoonjung Park, Junxi Wu
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO 65211, USA.
Tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) disrupts vascular circulation, contributing to cardiovascular diseases. Targeting this inflammatory cytokine offers potential new therapeutic strategies for vascular dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Science
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Vascular health relies on factors like endothelium-dependent relaxing factor (EDRF).
- Vascular dysfunction, linked to aging, smoking, and metabolic issues, contributes to cardiovascular diseases.
- Mechanisms of impaired vascular activity are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on tumour necrosis factor-alpha's (TNF-alpha) role in vascular dysfunction.
- To explore pathways influencing TNF-alpha expression and its impact on endothelial function.
- To highlight potential therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disease.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on TNF-alpha in vascular dysfunction.
- Analysis of signalling pathways including AGEs/RAGE, LOX-1, and NF-kappaB.
- Examination of factors affecting TNF-alpha, such as lipid metabolism and physical activity.
Main Results:
- TNF-alpha is implicated in macro- and microvascular circulation disruption.
- AGEs/RAGE, LOX-1, and NF-kappaB signalling pathways increase TNF-alpha production.
- Increased TNF-alpha leads to reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and endothelial dysfunction.
Conclusions:
- TNF-alpha plays a critical role in vascular dysfunction across various pathophysiological conditions.
- Factors like diet, exercise, and stem cell interactions influence TNF-alpha.
- Targeting inflammation, specifically TNF-alpha, presents a promising avenue for future cardiovascular therapies.
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