TNF and neoplasm: As a multifunctional cytotoxic molecule (102), the combination of TNF-α and its receptors (TNFR-1/TNFR-2) activates multiple signal transduction pathways, leading to diverse functions such as induction of tumor cell death by apoptosis and necrosis, stimulation of the secretion of other cytokines, and activation or recruitment of immune cells to the infection site.