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Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a)

This test is used to identify elevated levels of Tumor necrosis factor alpha. A variety of cells are shown to produce TNF- .TNF- is a growth factor for fibroblasts and stimulates the synthesis of collagenase and prostaglandin E2. Bone resorption can be induced by TNF- because it activates osteoclasts. TNF- enhances the proliferation of T cells after stimulation with IL-2. In the absence of IL-2, TNF- induces the proliferation and differentiation of beta cells. TNF- levels may be elevated in sepsis, cachexia, AIDS, Hepatitis C, transplant rejection, various infectious and autoimmune diseases.

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