The protein encoded by this gene is an adaptor molecule
that interacts with various cell surface receptors and mediates
cell apoptotic signals. Through its C-terminal death domain, this
protein can be recruited by TNFRSF6/Fas-receptor, tumor necrosis
factor receptor, TNFRSF25, and TNFSF10/TRAIL-receptor, and thus it
participates in the death signaling initiated by these receptors.
Interaction of this protein with the receptors unmasks the
N-terminal effector domain of this protein, which allows it to
recruit caspase-8, and thereby activate the cysteine protease
cascade. Knockout studies in mice also suggest the importance of
this protein in early T cell development.
