Fas Ligand

Fas ligand is also known as FasL, CD178, CD95L, or TNFSF6, is a homotrimeric type-II transmembrane protein that belongs to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family. Its binding with its receptor induces apoptosis. Fas ligand/receptor interactions play an important role in the regulation of the immune system and the progression of cancer. Mature human Fas Ligand consists of a 179 amino acid (aa) extracellular domain (ECD), a 22 aa transmembrane segment, and a 80 aa cytoplasmic domain. Within the ECD, human Fas Ligand shares 81% and 78% aa sequence identity with mouse and rat Fas Ligand, respectively. Apoptosis triggered by Fas-Fas ligand binding plays a fundamental role in the regulation of the immune system. Its functions include:T-cell homeostasis, cytotoxic T-cell activity, immune privilege, maternal tolerance, tumor counterattack. Defective Fas-mediated apoptosis may lead to oncogenesis as well as drug resistance in existing tumors. Germline mutation of Fas is associated with autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS), a childhood disorder of apoptosis.