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TRAIL and apoptosis induction by TNF-family death receptors

Shulin Wang1, Wafik S El-Deiry

  • 1Department of Medicine, and the Abramson Cancer Center, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.

Oncogene
|November 25, 2003
PubMed

Insights

Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) selectively triggers cancer cell death, offering a promising avenue for cancer therapy. Research explores TRAIL

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL/Apo2L) is a TNF family member initiating apoptosis via death receptors.
  • TRAIL selectively induces apoptosis in tumor cells, not most normal cells, making it a promising cancer therapeutic agent.
  • TRAIL plays a role in immune surveillance and suppressing tumor metastasis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review recent insights into TRAIL-stimulated apoptosis-signaling pathways.
  • To present the current understanding of TRAIL's physiological role.
  • To discuss the potential application of TRAIL in cancer therapy and prevention.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on TRAIL signaling and function.
  • Analysis of mechanisms of TRAIL resistance in tumors.
  • Exploration of combination therapies involving TRAIL.

Main Results:

  • TRAIL selectively induces apoptosis in various tumor cells.
  • Some tumors develop TRAIL resistance through various mechanisms.
  • TRAIL in combination with chemo- or radiotherapy can enhance sensitivity or reverse resistance.

Conclusions:

  • TRAIL is a promising agent for cancer therapy and prevention.
  • Understanding TRAIL resistance mechanisms is crucial for therapeutic design.
  • Further research into agents that activate death receptors or block effectors may improve TRAIL-based therapies.

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