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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
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
The second is tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha).
—William A. Haseltine, Forbes, 20 Feb. 2023
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Word History
First Known Use
1975, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of tumor necrosis factor was
in 1975
Dictionary Entries Near tumor necrosis factor
Cite this Entry
“Tumor necrosis factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/tumor%20necrosis%20factor. Accessed 15 Dec. 2024.
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
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