The role of tumour necrosis factor in rheumatoid arthritis

摘要: More than a century has passed since ‘Coley’s toxins’ obtained from filtered media of bacterial cultures were utilized to treat sarcomas. The rationale was based on the apparent regression sarcoma in patient who developed erysipelas [1-3]. results intervention, though apparently occasionally successful and undoubtedly toxic, inspired later work which led description 1975 tumour necrosis factor (TNF). TNF referred soluble serum induced by hyperimmunization mice with Bacillus Calmetre-Guerin endotoxin. This methylcholanthrene-induced sarcomas [4]. Initial interest therefore focussed tumourocidal properties TNF, but its role immunity inflammation only became after isolation characterisation molecule. In this review focus will be biology TNFα historical approach definition as therapeutic target that heralded three blockbuster drugs consolidated future ‘biodrugs’ an important sector pharmaceutical products.