Following a TRAIL: update on a ligand and its five receptors

Cell Res. 2004 Oct;14(5):359-72. doi: 10.1038/sj.cr.7290236.

Abstract

Identification of tumour necrosis factor apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL), a TNF family ligand, sparked a torrent of research, following an initial observation that it could kill tumour cells, but spare normal cells. Almost a decade after its discovery, and with five known receptors, the true physiological role of TRAIL is still debated and its anti-tumorigenic properties limited by potential toxicity. This review takes a comprehensive look at the story of this enigmatic ligand, addressing its remaining potential as a therapeutic and providing an overview of the TRAIL receptors themselves.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Apoptosis / drug effects
  • Apoptosis / physiology
  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
  • Humans
  • Ligands
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / physiology*
  • Membrane Glycoproteins / therapeutic use
  • Models, Biological
  • Protein Structure, Tertiary
  • Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor / physiology*
  • TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / physiology*
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
  • Ligands
  • Membrane Glycoproteins
  • Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor
  • TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand
  • TNFSF10 protein, human
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha