TNFalpha stimulated ATP-sensitive potassium channels and attenuated deoxyglucose and Ca uptake of H9c2 cardiomyocytes.

Tumor necrosis factor (TNFalpha) is an inflammatory cytokine that induces programmed cell death in a variety of tissue types, including the heart. Recent experimental data suggest that the TNF expressed within the myocardium in response to environmental injury plays an important role in initiating homeostatic response. The effect of TNFalpha (10-50 ng/mL) was studied on (86)Rb efflux, (3)H-deoxyglucose uptake, or (45)Ca uptake in H9c2 cardiomyocytes.