TRAF‐Mediated TNFR‐Family Signaling

The tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily consists of a wide variety of cell‐bound and secreted proteins that regulate numerous cellular processes. In particular, TNF‐family proteins regulate the proliferation and death of tumor cells, as well as activated immune cells. This overview discusses the mammalian TNF receptor‐associated factors (TRAFs), of which TRAF1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 have been shown to interact directly or indirectly with members of the TNF receptor superfamily. Structural features of TRAF proteins are described along with a discussion of TRAF‐interacting proteins and the signaling pathways activated by the TRAF proteins. Finally, we examine the phenotypes observed in TRAF‐knockout mice. Curr. Protoc. Immunol . 87:11.9D.1‐11.9D.19.