title: The role of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus.
abstract: The Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) is a pleiotropic cytokine that produces different stimuli in various physiological and pathological conditions. TNF-α contributes importantly to the development of T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells. However, TNF-α is also a potent inflammatory mediator and apoptosis inducer. The significance of the TNF-α involvement in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) remains controversial. From the genetic standpoint, a number of studies suggest that the TNF-α gene polymorphism is involved in the susceptibility of SLE. Moreover, there is a close association between the TNF-α gene expression and clinical manifestations. In addition, the increased serum level of TNF-α is observed in SLE patients and associated with disease activity and certain systemic manifestations. Treatment with anti-TNF agents is, however, controversial in SLE since induction of antinuclear antibodies, anti-dsDNA, anticardiolipin antibodies, and cases of drug-induced lupus have been observed in rheumatoid arthritis patients. In this context, this study reviewed the importance of TNF-α in the pathogenesis of SLE.
authors: Department of Medicine, Rheumatology Unit, Faculty of Medical Science, State University of Campinas, Cidade Universitária, Campinas SP, CEP 13083-970, Brazil.
authors: Mariana
authors: M
authors: Postal
authors: Simone
authors: S
authors: Appenzeller
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D008180:Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology* / Q000235:genetics / Q000503:physiopathology; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / Q000037:antagonists & inhibitors / Q000097:blood / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*
chemical_list: D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha