Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) is a multifunctional proinflammatory cytokine that belongs to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily. TNF is mainly secreted by macrophages. It can bind to, and thus functions through its receptors TNFRSF1A/TNFR1 and TNFRSF1B/TNFBR. TNF is involved in the regulation of a wide spectrum of biological processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, lipid metabolism, and coagulation. TNF has been implicated in a variety of diseases, including autoimmune diseases, insulin resistance, and cancer. Knockout studies in mice also suggested the neuroprotective function of this cytokine.Synonyms: Cachectin, TNF, TNF-a, TNFA, TNFSF2, Tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 2