A researcher investigates rheumatoid arthritis. If TNF-α secretion in the synovium is chronically elevated despite conventional treatment, which consequence is most likely?

💡 Explanation

Persistent TNF-α perpetuates inflammation via the NF-κB pathway, amplifying cytokine production and immune cell recruitment because TNF-α triggers further cytokine release. This unresolved positive feedback drives chronic inflammation, therefore the chronic inflammation persists rather than resolves due to immune regulation or reduced stimulation.

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