TNF alpha is a multifunctional proinflammatory cytokine that belongs to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-receptor superfamily. It is involved in the regulation of a wide spectrum of biological processes: cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, inflammation, lipid metabolism, and coagulation. TNF alpha has been implicated in a variety of autoimmune diseases (rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, multiple sclerosis, and psoriasis), insulin resistance, septic shock, and tumor metastases related to cancer.