Rabbit Polyclonal CD253 Antibody

CD253. also known as TRAIL (TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand), is a type II transmembrane protein belonging to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily. It binds to death receptors DR4 (TRAIL-R1) and DR5 (TRAIL-R2) to trigger extrinsic apoptosis in cancer cells while sparing normal cells, making it a promising therapeutic target. Antibodies targeting CD253 or its receptors have been explored for cancer treatment, aiming to exploit TRAIL’s selective pro-apoptotic activity. Agonistic anti-DR4/DR5 antibodies (e.g., mapatumumab, conatumumab) mimic TRAIL’s function to activate death signaling, particularly in tumors with defective intrinsic apoptotic pathways. Conversely, neutralizing anti-TRAIL antibodies may be used to block TRAIL-mediated immune evasion in autoimmune or inflammatory diseases. Despite preclinical success, clinical trials of TRAIL receptor agonists showed limited efficacy, partly due to tumor resistance mechanisms, such as decoy receptor overexpression or dysregulated apoptosis regulators. Current research focuses on combination therapies (e.g., with chemotherapy, targeted agents) or engineered bispecific antibodies to enhance potency. Additionally, anti-TRAIL antibodies serve as tools to study TRAIL’s role in immune regulation, viral responses, and tissue homeostasis. The dual role of TRAIL in promoting apoptosis and modulating immune responses underscores the complexity of targeting this pathway therapeutically.