tumor necrosis factor

noun

: a protein that is produced chiefly by monocytes and macrophages in response especially to endotoxins and that mediates inflammation and induces the destruction of some tumor cells and the activation of white blood cells

Examples of tumor necrosis factor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Quercetin has antiviral effects and can suppress inflammatory-causing proteins, such as tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β). —Jillian Kubala, Health, 16 Dec. 2024

The nutrients in whole grains like bulgur wheat may help lower inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), C-reactive protein (CRP), and tumor necrosis factors (TNF). —Lauren O'Connor, Ms, Health, 2 Oct. 2024

These include nitric oxide, tumor necrosis factor, and interleukin 6. —Heidi Moawad, Verywell Health, 23 Sep. 2024

Unlike some traditional ulcerative colitis therapies like tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers, Skyrizi is less likely to cause severe side effects. —Alyssa Hui, Verywell Health, 28 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1975, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

tumor necrosis factor

noun

: a protein that is produced chiefly by monocytes and macrophages in response especially to endotoxins, that mediates inflammation, and that induces the destruction of some tumor cells and the activation of white blood cells

—abbreviation TNF