Among the 4 inflammatory cytokines whose mRNA expressions were examined, except for IFNγ, the mRNA expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 were significantly enhanced at least in one of the three HF groups (HF-8, HF-12, and HF-16) when compared to the control group fed with a LF diet for 8 wks. This evidence concerns the gene TNF and hydrops fetalis.