Tumour necrosis factor α: A key regulator of adipose tissue mass

Abstract

In addition to its established role in the immune system, tumour necrosis factor α (TNFα) exerts complex regulatory actions on adipose tissue. TNFα is produced in and secreted by the adipocyte and thus is in a position to exert a paracrine and/or autocrine role within adipose tissue. TNFα affects many aspects of adipocyte function, from adipocyte development to lipid metabolism. Bringing together all of these diverse actions, TNFα appears to play a general role in reducing adipose tissue mass. Dysregulation of TNFα production and/or action could be one facet in the development of cachexia and obesity, as well as associated metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance.