Lever
Lifestyle
- Regular physical activity
- Stress management techniques
- Adequate sleep
Blutwerte · Marker
TNF-alpha
Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha · TNF-alpha · TNFa
EntzündungsmarkerZeitabhängig
- Einheit:
- pg/mL
- Abbreviation
- TNF-a
TNF-alpha quantifies the concentration of the pro-inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor-alpha in the blood.
Reference Ranges
Reference
0.5–5pg/mL
0.5
5
LowNormalHigh
Reference
Unit · pg/mLReference ranges may vary based on laboratory standards and assay methods.
Overview
Übersicht
Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-alpha) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine primarily produced by macrophages, monocytes, and other immune cells. It plays a critical role in the body's immune response by mediating inflammation and apoptosis. Clinically, TNF-alpha is significant in the pathogenesis of several autoimmune and inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Elevated levels are often associated with chronic inflammatory conditions and certain cancers. In the context of athletic performance and biohacking, TNF-alpha levels can reflect the body's inflammatory status, potentially impacting recovery and performance. However, its modulation must be approached cautiously, as both excessive and insufficient TNF-alpha activity can have adverse effects. Researchers have observed that factors such as time of day, fasting status, and acute infections can influence TNF-alpha levels, which should be considered when interpreting results.
Klinische Bedeutung
Elevated TNF-alpha levels indicate increased inflammatory activity, often seen in autoimmune diseases, chronic infections, and certain cancers. Reduced levels may suggest impaired immune function.
Dynamics
Trend Interpretation
Rising Values
Progressively rising TNF-alpha levels suggest worsening inflammation or disease activity; consider re-testing in 4-6 weeks.
Falling Values
Falling levels may indicate effective treatment or resolution of inflammation.
Re-test Interval
4 weeks if outside optimal range
Etiology
Causes — High & Low
Cause
Elevated Levels
- Chronic inflammatory diseases
- Autoimmune disorders
- Infections
- Obesity
- Cancer
- Stress
Cause
Low Levels
- Immunosuppressive therapy
- Malnutrition
- Chronic stress
- Certain genetic conditions
Protocol
How to Optimize
Lever
Nutrition
- Anti-inflammatory diet
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Rich in fruits and vegetables
Lever
Supplementation
- Curcumin
- Resveratrol
- Omega-3 supplements
Note:
Consult a healthcare provider before starting new supplements, especially if on medication.
Testing Guidelines
✓Fasting Not Required
🕐Time-Sensitive
TNF-alpha levels may vary throughout the day; morning samples are preferred for consistency.
Testing Frequency
Annually for individuals with chronic inflammatory conditions or as advised by a healthcare provider.
Interfering Factors
- Recent infections
- Acute stress
- Medication use
Related Peptides & Hormones
Interleukin 6
hormone or peptideCorrelated with
Open Research Questions
Current research suggests that the optimal reference ranges and targets for TNF-alpha in various diseases remain debated, particularly in autoimmune disorders and cancer. Researchers have not yet established the specific confounders affecting TNF-alpha levels, such as comorbidities or treatment history. Additionally, clinical questions remain unanswered regarding the predictive value of TNF-alpha as a biomarker for treatment responsiveness in diverse patient populations.
48 Research Publications
1,076
Total Citations
13
Human/RCT
2.2
Avg. Influence
2025
Latest
Sort
Filter
01Top
#01
Salivary IL-8, IL-6 and TNF-α as Potential Diagnostic Biomarkers for Oral Cancer.
UnknownInfluence5.0
169
Researchers reviewed the potential of salivary cytokines, including TNF-α, as diagnostic biomarkers for oral cancer. They noted that elevated levels of these cytokines are associated with cancer progression. The study suggests that saliva could be a cost-effective medium for early detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma.
02Top
#02
Past, Present and (Foreseeable) Future of Biological Anti-TNF Alpha Therapy.
ReviewInfluence4.0
158
This study reviewed the development and applications of anti-TNF-alpha therapies, which have significantly improved treatment for autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease. Researchers found that biomarkers predicting responsiveness to these therapies are under investigation, with potential future applications in other conditions such as viral infections and cancer.
03Top
#03
Prospective Roles of Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha (TNF-α) in COVID-19: Prognosis, Therapeutic and Management.
ReviewInfluence1.0
85
This study reviewed the role of TNF-alpha in COVID-19, noting its association with severe disease outcomes. Researchers found that high levels of TNF-alpha contribute to lung injury and respiratory failure, proposing it as a potential biomarker for prognosis in severe COVID-19 cases.
04
#04
Myeloperoxidase and Neurological Disorder: A Crosstalk.
ReviewInfluence2.0
83
Researchers explored the role of myeloperoxidase (MPO) in neuroinflammation and its connection to TNF-alpha. They found that MPO can increase TNF-alpha levels, contributing to inflammation and oxidative stress in neurological disorders, suggesting MPO as a potential biomarker for diagnosis.
05
#05
Oxidative stress and biomarker of TNF-α, MDA and FRAP in hypertension.
HumanInfluence4.0
62
This study explored the relationship between TNF-α levels and hypertension. Researchers found significantly elevated TNF-α levels in hypertensive patients compared to healthy controls, indicating its role in hypertension-related oxidative stress. The findings suggest that TNF-α could be a relevant biomarker in hypertension management.
06
#06
Chemerin in inflammatory diseases.
ReviewInfluence1.0
57
Researchers summarized the role of chemerin and TNF-alpha in obesity-related inflammatory diseases. They found that elevated levels of TNF-alpha are associated with various inflammatory conditions, suggesting its potential as a biomarker for both benign and malignant tumors.
07
#07
Hypothyroidism and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease.
ReviewInfluence3.0
43
This review focused on the relationship between hypothyroidism and cardiovascular disease, noting that TNF-alpha levels are elevated in patients with hypothyroidism. Researchers found that this inflammation contributes to atherosclerosis and plaque instability, highlighting the importance of managing thyroid hormone levels.
08
#08
Association between Serum TNF-α Levels and Recurrent Spontaneous Miscarriage: A Meta-analysis.
Meta-AnalysisInfluence2.0
41
Researchers conducted a meta-analysis to assess the link between serum TNF-α levels and recurrent spontaneous miscarriage (RSM). They found that TNF-α levels were significantly higher in RSM patients compared to controls, suggesting a potential role of TNF-α in miscarriage risk. The study highlights the need for standardized testing methods.
09
#09
TNFα and Immune Checkpoint Inhibition: Friend or Foe for Lung Cancer?
UnknownInfluence2.0
39
Researchers explored the dual roles of TNF-α in lung cancer, noting its potential to promote both tumor survival and immune response. They highlighted the importance of the balance between TNF-α forms and receptors in cancer progression. The study calls for further research into TNF-α as a biomarker for lung cancer treatment.
10
#10
Tumor necrosis factor-α and diabetic retinopathy: Review and meta-analysis.
Meta-Analysis
34
Researchers conducted a meta-analysis to assess the relationship between TNF-alpha levels and diabetic retinopathy (DR). They found no significant difference in TNF-alpha levels between DR patients and healthy controls, but noted significant associations in specific subgroups. The study suggests that TNF-alpha could be a candidate biomarker for DR.
Clinical Trials (4)
4
Total Trials
329
Total Enrolled
INVESTIGATION OF THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT ACTIVATION TECHNIQUES ON TLR9, IL6, IL10, TNF-ALFA LEVELS IN HEALTHY AND TYPE 2 DIABETIC PATIENTS WITH APICAL PERIODONTITIS REQUIRING RETREATMENT
NCT07389772ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION
Sponsor
bengisu yüksel
Enrollment
90
Started
2026
Primary outcome
TLR9 expression levels in periapical exudate and gingival crevicular fluid samples
Type 2 Diabetes
Safety and Efficacy Study of Etanercept for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Sponsor
Unity Health Toronto
Enrollment
0
Started
2021
Primary outcome
Safety, blood brain barrier (BBB) permeability and potential efficacy of the TNFa antagonist, etanercept, in humans with subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH).
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage, Aneurysmal
Study of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) in Triple Negative Breast Cancer Survivors
Sponsor
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Enrollment
65
Started
2013
Primary outcome
Normal Breast Tissue Expression of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-alpha) Levels
Benign Breast NeoplasmDuctal Breast Carcinoma In SituInvasive Breast CarcinomaLobular Breast Carcinoma In SituPaget Disease of the BreastStage IA Breast CancerStage IB Breast CancerStage IIA Breast CancerStage IIB Breast CancerStage IIIA Breast CancerStage IIIB Breast CancerStage IIIC Breast Cancer
The Relationship Between Aortic Pulse Wave, Aortic Calcification and Peripheral Artery Occlusion Disease in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
NCT01945203COMPLETED
Sponsor
National Taiwan University Hospital
Enrollment
174
Started
2011
Primary outcome
Evaluate the associations between aortic pulse wave, ankle-brachial index, aortic calcification and blood/serum biochemical markers, such as MPO, MMP-9, IL-6, adiponectin, TNF-alpha, of the patients in prevalent peritoneal dialysis patients.
End-stage Renal DiseasePeritoneal DialysisAortic CalcificationPeripheral Artery OcclusionCardiovascular Disease
Publication Trend
Research publications about TNF-alpha over time
9totalTrack your bloodwork in PepStack
Log lab results, track trends and optimize your biomarkers over time.
Legal Disclaimer
This page is for informational and research purposes only. All information is based on published scientific literature and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendations. Many substances listed may not be approved for human use and may be subject to drug regulation laws (e.g., AMG in Germany, FDA in the US). PepStack does not encourage the use of any substance on humans. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health-related decisions. Use of this information is entirely at your own risk. PepStack assumes no liability for the accuracy, completeness, or timeliness of the content provided. Full disclaimer