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Updated: Jun 13, 2026

Transfer of Manipulated Tumor-associated Neutrophils into Tumor-Bearing Mice to Study their Angiogenic Potential In Vivo
Published on: July 20, 2019
[Does TNF play a role in the pathogenesis of solid tumors?]
1Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Rheumatologie, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin.
Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha blocking agents are crucial in rheumatology. While TNF can cause tumor necrosis, its role in cancer promotion and the risks of TNF inhibitors require further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Context:
- Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha blocking agents are vital in rheumatology.
- TNF's dual role in cancer, potentially causing tumor necrosis but also promoting tumor growth, invasiveness, and metastasis, presents a complex challenge.
- The use of TNF inhibitors has raised concerns regarding cancer risk, particularly in pediatric patients.
Purpose:
- To explore the pathogenic characteristics of TNF in carcinogenesis.
- To evaluate the potential benefits and risks of TNF inhibition in cancer treatment and progression.
- To clarify the association between TNF inhibitors, rheumatic diseases, and cancer risk in different age groups.
Summary:
- TNF-alpha blocking agents are important in rheumatology, but their role in cancer is complex.
- While TNF can induce tumor necrosis, it can also promote tumor growth and metastasis in some cancers.
- Evidence suggests TNF inhibition might impede carcinogenesis, yet concerns about increased cancer risk with TNF inhibitors persist, especially in children.
Impact:
- Understanding TNF's role in carcinogenesis is crucial for optimizing rheumatologic treatments.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the precise impact of TNF inhibition on solid tumor pathogenesis.
- Clarifying cancer risks associated with TNF inhibitors will inform clinical practice and patient safety, particularly in long-term use.
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