of cell membranes. Transforming growth factor
alpha (TGF-alpha) stimulates the cells to grow,
divide, and differentiate (cell proliferation). Lym-
phocytes and macrophages produce TGF-alpha.
TGF-beta stimulates interleukin 1 (IL-1) produc-
tion and blocks the response of lymphocytes in
the inflammatory process. Lymphocytes,
macrophages, and platelets secrete TGFs.
See also INFLAMMATION; INTERFERONS; INTER-
LEUKINS; LYMPHOCYTE; MACROPHAGE; PLATELET; TUMOR
NECROSIS FACTORS(TNFS).
tumor necrosis factors (TNFs) CYTOKINES that
kill tumor cells and participate in the inflamma-
tory response. Leukocytes (white BLOODcells) pro-
duce TNFs under stimulation from INTERLEUKINS.
Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), also
called cachexin or cachectin, is the most active in
these processes. Recombinant TNF-alpha is a
treatment option for certain types of cancer. The
spice turmeric (active ingredient curcumin) and
the catechins in GREEN TEAalso boost TNF-alpha.
Overactive TNF production contributes to inflam-
matory AUTOIMMUNE DISORDERSsuch as RHEUMATOID
ARTHRITISand INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD).
Doctors sometimes use therapeutic MONOCLONAL
ANTIBODIES(MABS), such as infliximab and etaner-
cept, to block TNF-alpha.
See also INFLAMMATION; LEUKOCYTE; RECOMBINANT
DNA.tumor necrosis factors (TNFs) 297