What is the function of TNF-α?

What is the function of TNF-α?

• A. Mediates septic shock
• B. Inhibits macrophage activation
• C. Promotes wound healing
• D. Induces antibody production

Answer: (A)

TNF-α is a pro-inflammatory cytokine produced mainly by macrophages in response to pathogens and endotoxins. It acts on vascular endothelium and immune cells to amplify inflammation, increase vascular permeability, and induce fever and the acute-phase response. When released in large amounts, TNF-α drives the systemic inflammatory response of septic shock, promoting widespread vasodilation, capillary leak, hypotension, and organ dysfunction. It also helps recruit neutrophils and activates macrophages, reinforcing the inflammatory cascade. It does not inhibit macrophage activation; it actually enhances it. It is not primarily a signal for wound healing, and it does not directly induce antibody production.

TNF-α is a pro-inflammatory cytokine produced mainly by macrophages in response to pathogens and endotoxins. It acts on vascular endothelium and immune cells to amplify inflammation, increase vascular permeability, and induce fever and the acute-phase response. When released in large amounts, TNF-α drives the systemic inflammatory response of septic shock, promoting widespread vasodilation, capillary leak, hypotension, and organ dysfunction. It also helps recruit neutrophils and activates macrophages, reinforcing the inflammatory cascade. It does not inhibit macrophage activation; it actually enhances it. It is not primarily a signal for wound healing, and it does not directly induce antibody production.