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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
08:19

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?]

H Bastian1, G-R Burmester

  • 1Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Rheumatologie, Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Campus Mitte, Charitéplatz 1, 10117 Berlin.

Zeitschrift Fur Rheumatologie
|May 19, 2010
PubMed

Insights

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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