Decker K
Biochemisches Institut der Albert-Ludwigs-Universität Freiburg.
Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax. 1992 Sep 1;81(36):1044-7.
TNF-alpha (Cachectin) is a cytokine (tissue hormone) synthesized and secreted as a trimeric polypeptide; major producers are the cells of the RES after stimulation, e.g. by endotoxin. Its synthesis is strictly regulated. TNF elicits a great number of cell-specific responses. IL-1 and probably additional mediators cooperate in these effects. TNF is instrumental not only in the pathogenesis of inflammation, infections and some cell injuries, but also in the unspecific immune response, tumor toxicity and tissue homeostasis. TNF binding to specific receptors on cell surfaces initiates of secondary intracellular signals that, in turn, mediate the metabolic responses of the target cells. Pharmacological intervention may be envisaged at the level of synthesis (glucocorticoids, anti-oxidants) or interaction of the cytokine with its receptors.
肿瘤坏死因子-α（恶病质素）是一种作为三聚体多肽合成并分泌的细胞因子（组织激素）；主要产生者是受到刺激（如内毒素刺激）后网状内皮系统的细胞。其合成受到严格调控。肿瘤坏死因子引发大量细胞特异性反应。白细胞介素-1以及可能的其他介质在这些效应中协同作用。肿瘤坏死因子不仅在炎症、感染和一些细胞损伤的发病机制中起作用，还在非特异性免疫反应、肿瘤毒性和组织稳态中起作用。肿瘤坏死因子与细胞表面的特异性受体结合会引发次级细胞内信号，进而介导靶细胞的代谢反应。可以设想在合成水平（糖皮质激素、抗氧化剂）或细胞因子与其受体相互作用的水平进行药理干预。
