[Biological manifestations of the tumor necrosis factor effect and its role in the pathogenesis of various diseases].

Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is a polypeptide mediator regulating function of various organs and cells produced by macrophages and lymphocytes due to various stimuli and is responsible for an acute response of the host to the damage. Directly or indirectly the polypeptide modulates biological functions of leucocytes, lymphocytes, macrophages, eosinophils and many other cells and organs as well as different types of metabolism. It is considered now the most important factor of inflammation and cachexia.