The present invention relates to methods of regulating TNF activity
indirectly by regulating the activity or concentration of TNF receptor
releasing enzyme (TRRE). Preferably, the TRRE activity is regulated local
to the site of the condition to be treated. In the case of diseases
associated with elevated levels of TNF, such as rheumatoid arthritis, TRRE
is administered to the site of inflammation in an amount sufficient to
decrease the local levels of TNF. In the case of diseases, such as cancer,
that benefit from increased levels of TNF, the level of TRRE is decreased
at the disease site.
