Biomarkers > Inflammatory > TNF

TNF (pg/mL)

Inflammatory

About TNF

Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine involved in systemic inflammation and is part of the body's immune response. It is primarily produced by activated macrophages, but can also be produced by other immune cells like T lymphocytes, natural killer cells, and neutrophils. TNF plays a critical role in the regulation of immune cells, and its dysregulation is associated with various diseases including autoimmune disorders, chronic inflammatory conditions, and cancer.

Reference Values

Optimal Range
0 - 10 pg/mL
Elite Value
Not specified

Health Implications

High
Elevated levels may indicate chronic inflammation, autoimmune disorders, or an increased risk of inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.
Low
Low levels may be associated with compromised immune response, leaving the body vulnerable to infections and hindering wound healing.

Symptoms

High
May include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and increased inflammation.
Low
Can include dizziness, weakness, and more susceptibility to infections.

Lifestyle Factors

Engaging in anti-inflammatory exercises like yoga or Tai Chi, Following a plant-based or Mediterranean diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, Practicing mindfulness or meditation to reduce chronic stress, Ensuring adequate and restful sleep consistently each night, Incorporating turmeric or ginger into meals for their anti-inflammatory properties, Limiting consumption of processed and sugary foods

Specimen Type

Blood Serum Blood Plasma Tissue Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)

Testing Methods

ELISA Immunoassay PCR Western Blot Flow Cytometry Luminex Multiplex Assay
Also Known As
TNF-alphaTumor Necrosis Factor Alpha

Scientific Sources

  1. 1. Tracey, K. J. (2020). Tumor necrosis factor: A master regulator of inflammation. *The Journal of Clinical Investigation*, 130(2), 555-563.
  2. 2. Balkwill, F. (2018). TNF-alpha in inflammation and cancer: The good, the bad, and the ugly. *Nature Reviews Immunology*, 18(5), 319-330.
  3. 3. Feldmann, M., & Maini, R. N. (2019). TNF defined as a therapeutic target for rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases. *Nature Medicine*, 25(1), 141-149.
  4. 4. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE). (2021). TNF-alpha inhibitors for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. *NICE Guidelines*.
  5. 5. U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2022). TNF blockers: Drug safety communication. *FDA Drug Safety Communications*.

Related Biomarkers

hsCRP, Interleukin 6, Interleukin 1 Beta, Cortisol, Ferritin

Testing Information

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