TNF and rheumatoid arthritis: Additionally, patients with arthritis have higher serum 14-3-3 Eta protein levels inducing the production of proinflammatory cytokines like tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β, which can lead to joint degradation including matrix metalloproteinase 9 and receptor activator of nuclear factor-κB ligand (RANKL).[6] Thus, 14-3-3 Eta protein may enhance laboratory effectiveness in the early diagnosis and prognosis of RA and JIA.[8,9]