Fas receptor
Fas receptor (also known as APO-1 or CD95) is a protein that in humans is encoded by the FAS gene. The Fas receptor is a death receptor on the surface of cells that leads to programmed cell death (apoptosis). It is one of two apoptosis pathways, the other being the mitochondrial pathway.
Structure[edit | edit source]
The Fas receptor is a type of protein that is typically found on the surface of cells. It is a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily. The receptor is composed of three cysteine-rich extracellular domains, a transmembrane domain, and a cytoplasmic death domain.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of the Fas receptor is to induce apoptosis, or programmed cell death. This is achieved through the formation of the death-inducing signaling complex (DISC), which includes the Fas-associated death domain protein (FADD) and caspase-8.
Role in disease[edit | edit source]
Mutations in the FAS gene can result in various disorders, including autoimmune lymphoproliferative syndrome (ALPS), a rare inherited disorder of the immune system, and certain types of cancer. In addition, the Fas receptor has been implicated in the progression of HIV and AIDS.
Therapeutic potential[edit | edit source]
Due to its role in apoptosis, the Fas receptor is a potential target for therapeutic intervention in diseases where cell death is a factor. This includes conditions such as cancer, autoimmune diseases, and neurodegenerative diseases.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD