TNF-α
Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha
Also known as: TNFA, TNFSF2, Cachectin
Primary pro-inflammatory cytokine driving acute and chronic inflammatory signaling.
Biological Function
TNF-α is a master regulator of the inflammatory response, produced primarily by macrophages. It activates NF-κB signaling, induces apoptosis, promotes leukocyte recruitment, and drives the acute phase response. While essential for pathogen defense, chronic TNF-α elevation is a hallmark of metabolic syndrome, autoimmune disease, and inflammaging.
Why Biomeme Monitors This Target
TNF-α is one of the most direct readouts of systemic inflammation. In the wellness context, chronically elevated TNF-α indicates persistent inflammatory burden. Tracking TNF-α expression alongside anti-inflammatory interventions (GLP-1 therapy, lifestyle changes) provides molecular evidence of whether inflammation is being successfully suppressed.
Expression Context
Acutely induced by infection, tissue injury, and immune activation. Chronically elevated in obesity, insulin resistance, and aging. Anti-TNF biologics are among the most successful drug classes in medicine.
Signaling Pathway
Quick Facts
- Symbol
- TNF-α
- Category
- Inflammation & Immune Response
- Applications
- Wellness, Sepsis, Longevity
- Linked Therapies
- 1
Related Targets
Monitor TNF-α Expression.
Biomeme's multiplexed platform can include TNF-α in a custom panel alongside up to 47 other molecular targets — in a single rapid run.
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