TRAIL, Mouse

TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), also known as Tumor Necrosis Factor Super-Family 10 (TNFSF10) or apoptosis 2 ligand (Apo2L), is a pleiotropic cytokine thatbelongs to the TNF superfamily. Full length TRAIL expressed in vivo is a type II transmembrane protein, although the soluble form also exists and functions. TRAIL has four major receptors: two death receptors DR4 and DR5, and two decoy receptors DcR1 and DcR2. TRAIL binds to the death receptors which recruits the FAS-associated death domain and activates caspases 8 and 10 which eventually leads to apoptosis. Because of its antitumor potential, TRAIL is activelystudied as a therapeutic agent. On the other hand, abnormal expression of TRAIL in small arteries can induce the proliferation of smooth muscle cells, thereby increasing vascular remodeling and pulmonary arterial hypertension.