Tumor Necrosis Factor and Infectious Diseases, December 25, 1993

Tumor Necrosis Factor and Infectious Diseases, December 25, 1993

It has long been known that bacterial infections can occasionally induce spontaneous regression of malignant tumors, leading to speculation that bacteria and their toxins may contain certain anti-tumor factors. In 1975, Caswoll injected BCG vaccine and endotoxin into animal models and discovered an unprecedented active factor in their serum that could cause necrosis of tumor tissues, hence the name “tumor necrosis factor” (TNF). Further research revealed that localized and transient production of this factor is beneficial to the body, while systemic production is harmful. TNF is an important mediator involved in immune responses and inflammatory reactions. ①TNF induces damage to infectious disease tissues, such as sepsis, severe meningitis, acute liver failure, chronic liver disease, and dysentery. ②It also has anti-infective effects against Candida albicans, viruses, Plasmodium, and Schistosoma. In summary, although tumor necrosis factor has certain anti-infective effects, its ability to promote cell necrosis in various infections makes its benefits and drawbacks equally significant.