TNF and infection: During experimental infection by A. flavus, an inflammatory state is established on the mouse lungs, characterized by production of cytokines, including IFN-γ and IL-6, and by recruitment of the immune system cells (neutrophils, lymphocytes, and macrophages); however, at 12 h postinfection, decreased TNF-α levels and higher IL-10 concentrations are observed, suggesting an inflammatory form of regulation (47).