Apo2.7

Apo2.7 is a protein that is encoded by the TNFRSF10B gene in humans. It is also known as TRAIL receptor 2 (TRAIL-R2), death receptor 5 (DR5), and killer/DR5. This protein is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, and it is involved in the process of apoptosis.

Function[edit | edit source]

Apo2.7 is a cell surface receptor that is expressed in a variety of human tissues. It binds to its ligand, TRAIL, to induce apoptosis in cells. Apoptosis is a form of programmed cell death that is essential for the maintenance of homeostasis in the body.

The binding of TRAIL to Apo2.7 triggers a series of events that lead to the activation of caspases, which are enzymes that play a crucial role in the execution phase of cell apoptosis. This process is regulated by several proteins, including FADD, c-FLIP, and NF-kappaB.

Clinical significance[edit | edit source]

Apo2.7 has been implicated in a variety of diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, and infectious diseases. In cancer, the overexpression of Apo2.7 has been associated with increased sensitivity to TRAIL-induced apoptosis, making it a potential target for cancer therapy.

In autoimmune diseases, the dysregulation of Apo2.7 and TRAIL signaling has been linked to the pathogenesis of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. In infectious diseases, Apo2.7 has been shown to play a role in the immune response to viral infections.