Biology of TNFα and IL-10, and their imbalance in heart failure

Our understanding of the multiple in vivo functions of the proinflammatory cytokine, tumor necrosis factor (TNFα), is advancing at a rapid pace. In addition to its antitumor effects, overproduction of TNFα provokes tissue injury and organ failure. TNFα has also been shown to be cardiodepressent and responsible for various cardiovascular complications. It appears that still much needs to be learned for a full comprehension of the role of TNFα in heart biology. Another cytokine, interleukin-10 (IL-10), has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. It is suggested to counterbalance many adverse effects of TNFα. IL-10 suppresses the production of TNFα and many other proinflammatory cytokines. TNFα-induced oxidative stress is also known to be mitigated by IL-10. Moreover, improvement in cardiac function after treatment with various drugs is also shown to be associated with an increase in IL-10 content. Based on the data reviewed in here, it is suggested that an optimal balance between IL-10 and TNFα may be a new therapeutic strategy for a healthier heart. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2008.