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Cell Research (2004); 14(5):359-372

Following a TRAIL: Update on a ligand and its five receptors

Fiona C. Kimberley¹, Gavin R. Screaton^2,*

¹Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, Human Immunology Unit, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford OX3 9DS, UK
²Department of Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN UK.

Correspondence: Gavin R. Screaton g.screaton@imperial.ac.uk

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Identification of tumour necrosis factor apoptosis inducing ligand (TRAIL), a TNF family ligand, sparked a torrent of research, following an initial observation that it could kill tumour cells, but spare normal cells. Almost a decade after its discovery, and with five known receptors, the true physiological role of TRAIL is still debated and its anti-tumorigenic properties limited by potential toxicity. This review takes a comprehensive look at the story of this enigmatic ligand, addressing its remaining potential as a therapeutic and providing an overview of the TRAIL receptors themselves.

Keywords: TRAIL, apoptosis, cancer.