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Transfer of Manipulated Tumor-associated Neutrophils into Tumor-Bearing Mice to Study their Angiogenic Potential In Vivo
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TNF-alpha and its inhibitors in cancer

Inès Zidi1, Souhir Mestiri, Aghleb Bartegi

  • 1Laboratory of Biochemistry, Research Unit 02/UR/09-01, High Institute of Biotechnology, Institut Supérieur de Biotechnologie, BP 74, Avenue Tahar Haddad, Monastir 5000, Tunisia. ines.zidi@techemail.com

Medical Oncology (Northwood, London, England)
|March 12, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha has a dual role in cancer, potentially promoting tumors or acting as an anti-tumor agent. This review examines TNF-alpha inhibitors, their therapeutic uses, and associated risks.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in apoptosis and cell proliferation.
  • TNF-alpha plays a complex role in human diseases, including inflammatory conditions and tumor development.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the molecular mechanisms, signaling pathways, and therapeutic functions of TNF-alpha.
  • To provide insight into the paradoxical roles of TNF-alpha in tumor promotion and its use as an anti-tumor agent.
  • To discuss recent findings on TNF-alpha inhibitors, including their pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and clinical relevance.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of TNF-alpha, its signaling, and therapeutic functions.
  • Analysis of six TNF-alpha inhibitors: Infliximab, Adalimumab, Golimumab, CDP870, CDP571, Etanercept, and Thalidomide.
  • Discussion of clinical applications in inflammatory diseases and cancer treatment.

Main Results:

  • TNF-alpha exhibits a dual role in cancer, acting as both a tumor promoter and an anti-tumor agent.
  • Several TNF-alpha inhibitors are effective in treating inflammatory diseases and certain cancers.
  • Targeting TNF-alpha can lead to side effects, including increased malignancy risk, with long-term consequences requiring further investigation.

Conclusions:

  • TNF-alpha inhibitors have significant clinical relevance but necessitate careful patient monitoring due to potential adverse effects.
  • The paradoxical roles of TNF-alpha in cancer warrant continued research for optimized therapeutic strategies.
  • Further exploration of the long-term safety and efficacy of TNF-alpha inhibitors is crucial.

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