[The modifying action of tumor necrosis factor on angiogenesis]

It has been shown that capillary formation in chorion-allantois membranes of chicken embryos under the influence of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) on neovascularization process depends on the dose applied and that the character of this influence may be different. Little TNF doses (0.025-0.25 ng) inhibit angiogenesis induced by the angiogenic factor received from the Lewis carcinoma. An increase of the TNF dose stimulates angiogenesis. The further rise of the dose produces a destructive effect on capillaries. The dose-dependent effect of the TNF must be considered in different model systems as well as in clinical practice.