It is my understanding that thalidomide inhibits the production of TNF-
alpha. IL-1 beta, IL6, and granulocyte/macrophage colony-stimulating
factor produced by monocytes remain unaltered. With respect to a patient
with adenocarcinoma of the prostate (stage B1), what is the significance
of TNF-alpha? Do the anti-angiogenic effects of thalidomide offset the
TNF-alpha suppression? Is the production of TNF-alpha significant? ( V.
Gavallo reports that most TNF-alpha produced in response to solid tumors
has an aberrant structure )
Your expert opinions are appreciated.
Thanks,
Dave
