Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha and Its Association With Breast Cancer: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Biomarkers

Background:

• Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in cancer development.
• Elevated TNF-α is associated with breast cancer progression, metastasis, and survival.
• Understanding the role of TNF-α in breast cancer is crucial for treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the evidence on TNF-α levels in breast cancer.
• To investigate the association between TNF-α and breast cancer progression, metastasis, and treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was performed in major scientific databases.
• Observational studies published up to June 2024 were included.
• Nine studies met the inclusion criteria for the review.

Main Results:

• Breast cancer patients showed higher TNF-α levels compared to healthy controls in eight studies.
• Elevated TNF-α was associated with metastatic breast cancer in two studies.
• Higher TNF-α levels correlated with poorer chemotherapy response and reduced survival in some studies.

Conclusions:

• Increased TNF-α levels are significantly linked to breast cancer progression, metastasis, and adverse treatment outcomes.
• TNF-α shows potential as a prognostic biomarker for breast cancer.
• Further research is needed to explore TNF-α as a therapeutic target.