Lymphotoxin

Lymphotoxin (LT), also known as tumor necrosis factor beta (TNF-beta), is a type of cytokine that plays a crucial role in the immune response and inflammation. It is produced by lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell.

Structure

Lymphotoxin is a protein that is structurally similar to tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha). It exists in two forms: LT-alpha, which is a soluble form, and LT-beta, which is a membrane-bound form. Both forms are produced by activated T cells and natural killer cells.

Function

The primary function of lymphotoxin is to regulate immune responses and inflammation. It does this by stimulating the production of adhesion molecules and chemokines, which help to recruit immune cells to sites of infection or injury. Lymphotoxin also promotes the growth and differentiation of B cells and T cells, and enhances the killing ability of natural killer cells.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of lymphotoxin have been associated with several diseases, including autoimmune diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases, and certain types of cancer. In particular, high levels of lymphotoxin have been found in patients with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus.

See also

• Cytokine
• Immune system
• Inflammation
• Tumor necrosis factor