What Does TRAF Stand For?

TRAF stands for Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Associated Factor

TRAF, or Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Associated Factor, is a family of regulatory proteins that play a crucial role in cellular signaling pathways, particularly those involved in immune response and inflammation. TRAF proteins are essential in mediating the effects of cytokines, especially tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and serve as adapters that link receptors to downstream signaling cascades. By influencing processes such as cell survival, apoptosis, and differentiation, TRAF proteins are vital in maintaining immune homeostasis and have implications in various diseases, including cancer and autoimmune disorders.