[Etanercept: recombinant human soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor fusion protein].

: TNF is a central cytokine in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis(RA), which induces synovitis as well as joint damage. Etanercept is a recombinant human soluble TNF receptor that binds specifically to TNF receptor, and inhibits TNF receptor-mediated signaling cascade. Recent investigations have revealed successful clinical efficacy of biologics in RA including etanercept. We reviewed here the structure and efficacy of etanercept in RA according to the published evidence.