[Analysis of TNF receptor by binding assay].

The existence of a TNF receptor on TNF-sensitive tumor cells and on certain normal cells was elucidated by specific binding assay. A close correspondence (r = 0.855) was shown between the receptor number and the sensitivity of the tumor cells. However, for normal cells, despite the existence of TNF receptors, no cytotoxic effect was observed. Furthermore, certain normal diploid cells underwent proliferation as a result of TNF stimulation. It was therefore concluded that the existence of TNF receptor is essential but not sufficient in itself for TNF-induced cytotoxicity.