TNFSF

TNFSF proteins are ligands, which means they can attach (bind) to other proteins called receptors. A ligand and its receptor fit together like a key in a lock. TNFSF proteins bind with members of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily (TNFRSF). Depending on which proteins are involved, this binding triggers a series of chemical signals that instruct cells to grow and divide, self-destruct, or mature and take on specialized functions. Disorders caused by mutations in TNFSF genes all involve abnormal cell signaling resulting from a ligand that cannot properly interact with its receptor.