Gene TNF

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Also known as

TNF-alpha, TNFA, TNFSF2, cachectin, tumor necrosis factor

Overview

TNF (Tumor Necrosis Factor) encodes a potent pro-inflammatory cytokine that plays central roles in immune regulation, inflammation, and cell survival. TNF is primarily produced by macrophages and is involved in the acute phase reaction, fever, and systemic inflammation. While essential for fighting infections, excessive TNF contributes to many inflammatory diseases.

The -308G>A polymorphism (rs1800629) in the TNF promoter region affects gene expression, with the A allele associated with higher TNF production. This variant has been linked to increased risk of autoimmune diseases, sepsis severity, and chronic inflammatory conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and psoriasis.

TNF is the target of several biologic medications (infliximab, adalimumab, etanercept) used to treat autoimmune diseases. Understanding your TNF genetic status can provide insights into inflammatory predisposition and may help predict response to anti-TNF therapies. Lifestyle and dietary interventions can also modulate TNF levels.

NutraHacker Raw DNA Analysis Products that include this gene

Upload raw DNA data to get your very own analysis of gene TNF through your personalized DNA reports.