TNF and torsades de pointes: Furthermore, exaggerated inflammatory cytokines especially tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and IL-6, alter the expression and function of cardiac ion channels especially the delayed rapid rectifier K+ channels (IKr) and Ca2+ channels which cause prolongation of ventricular action potential (AP) and may predispose to prolonged QTc syndrome and Torsade de points (TdP).