TNF family molecules in the serum of patients with B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL).

Tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily, involving membrane receptors and ligands are important for the growth and survival of leukemic B cells. In the present study levels of TNF-alpha, sTNFRp55, sTNFRp75 and sCD40 and sCD40L in the serum of patients with B-CLL before and after treatment were measured. In sera of patients before treatment increased concentrations of sCD40 and decreased concentrations of sCD40L were shown. Increased concentrations of TNF-alpha and sTNFRp75 and lack of changes in sTNFRp55 concentrations were also found. Results obtained suggest that the relationships between examined soluble form of TNF family proteins may influence the development of B-cell chronic lymphocytic leukemia. The used therapy with 2CdA and CMC led to a favorable effect for host through changes in the relations between sCD40 and sCD40L. It was also found that sCD40 and sCD40L serum concentrations, which are dependent on the clinical stage and used therapy, are more sensitive tumor markers than TNF-alpha and its soluble receptor in patients with B-CLL treated with 2CdA and CMC.