ROLE OF TUMOR NECROSIS FACTOR ALPHA IN IMMUNE PATHOGENESIS OF DIFFERENT DISEASES AND ITS SIGNIFICANCE FOR EVOLVING ANTICYTOKINE THERAPY WITH MONOCLONAL ANTIBODIES

Abstract

Tumor necrosis factor alpha (generally known as cachectin) was noted as a hallmark since the time of its discovery and still retains its position as one of the most intensely studied molecules in the field of biomedicine. TNFα is considered a prototype molecule of the family which, on the one hand, plays an important role in regulating normal differentiation, growth and metabolism of various cells, and on the other hand, acts as mediator of inflammatory processes in various human diseases. Intensive interdisciplinary studies of TNFα biological role and therapeutic use have led to understanding of its polyfunctional effects and establishment of its leading role in immune pathogenesis of diseases, which was the basis for the development of “anticytokine” therapy with highly specific monoclonal antibodies. We aimed for a search of literature in the field of studying TNFα structure and properties, its role under normal conditions, in different diseases and therapy. The literature studies were performed using scientific searching systems and databases. The results are as follows: the role of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNFα) in human body in normal and pathological state was considered. Possible TNF-inducible signaling pathways, as well as existing inhibitors based on monoclonal antibodies for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases are  described. In conclusion, intensive interdisciplinary studies of TNFα biological functions in normal state and diseases are still relevant today, despite huge knowledge gained on this subject.Undisputable progress in understanding the functional multiplicity of TNFα as a participant in regulation of various physiological and pathological processes in the human body has promoted development of biological agents, i.e., the tumor necrosis factor inhibitors based on monoclonal antibodies, which proved to be highly effective drugs for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other  diseases, thus being effective and safe biopharmaceuticals.