Cachectin and tumor-necrosis-factor as 2 sides of the same biological coin

Academic Article
uri icon

publication date

  • 1986

abstract

  • In response to invasive stimuli macrophages secrete cachectin, a multipotent protein. Prominent among its biological effects is the ability to induce wasting (cachexia) as well as a lethal state of shock. The identity of cachectin and tumour necrosis factor has led to a new view of its therapeutic potential.