Journal of Cell Science 115, e402-e402 (2002)
© 2002 The Company of Biologists Limited
TRAFs: transducers for TNF and IL-1/Toll-like receptor superfamilies (p. 679)
Signalling through members of the TNF receptor and IL-1/Toll-like receptor
superfamilies regulates a variety of biological processes, including adaptive
and innate immunity, development and stress responses. The TRAFs are a group
of intracellular adapters that represent the major transducers for these
receptors. They associate directly or indirectly with the receptor, acting as
platforms for assembly of various signalling molecules. Hao Wu and co-workers
discuss the biological functions of these adaptors and how specificity in
their signalling is achieved. The TRAFs appear to have distinct roles —
TRAF2, for example, has a cytoprotective role whereas TRAF6 is important for
innate immunity to pathogens. This reflects the different preferences of TRAFs
for interaction with different upstream receptors. Activation of distinct
downstream signalling molecules, however, could also play an important part:
Wu and co-workers suggest that, although both TRAF2 and TRAF6 stimulate the
AP-1 and NF-
B transcription factors, their use of distinct signalling
intermediates results in activation of different components of these
factors.
Related articles in JCS:
- All TRAFs are not created equal: common and distinct molecular mechanisms of TRAF-mediated signal transduction
- Jee Y. Chung, Young Chul Park, Hong Ye, and Hao Wu
JCS 2002 115: 679-688.
[Abstract]
[Full Text]
