Molecule
TNF-alpha (Tumor Necrosis Factor alpha)
Pro-inflammatory cytokine elevated in POEMS
- Expression change
- Elevated
- Evidence level
- moderate
- Targeted by
- Lenalidomide, Thalidomide (indirect via IMiD mechanism)
Role in pathogenesis
TNF-alpha is part of the pro-inflammatory cytokine milieu in POEMS. Elevated compared to multiple myeloma patients. Contributes to systemic inflammation, vascular dysfunction, and possibly neuropathy. Targeted indirectly by immunomodulatory drugs (lenalidomide, thalidomide) which inhibit TNF-alpha secretion.