Decoy receptor 2

Decoy receptor 2 (DcR2), also known as TNFRSF10D, is a protein that in humans is encoded by the TNFRSF10D gene. It is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, and is one of the key players in the regulation of apoptosis or programmed cell death.

Function

DcR2 is a receptor that has been shown to play a crucial role in the regulation of apoptosis. It is a decoy receptor, meaning it can bind to certain ligands but does not signal for cell death. Instead, it inhibits apoptosis by competing with death receptors for ligand binding. This function is crucial in many physiological and pathological processes, including immune response, tissue development, and cancer progression.

Structure

The DcR2 protein is a type I membrane protein, and it contains a truncated death domain. This structure allows it to bind to Fas ligand (FasL), but it does not induce apoptosis. Instead, it serves as a decoy that prevents the ligand from binding to the actual death receptors.

Clinical significance

DcR2 has been implicated in a variety of diseases, particularly in cancer. Overexpression of DcR2 has been observed in many types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer, and colorectal cancer. This overexpression is thought to contribute to the resistance of these cancer cells to apoptosis, thereby promoting tumor growth and progression.

Research

Research into DcR2 is ongoing, with a focus on its role in cancer and potential as a therapeutic target. Studies have shown that blocking DcR2 can enhance the sensitivity of cancer cells to apoptosis, suggesting that it could be a promising target for cancer therapy.

See also

• Decoy receptor 1
• Decoy receptor 3
• Tumor necrosis factor receptor