Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 19 (TNFRSF19), also known as TAJ-alpha or TROY, is a member of the TNF-receptor superfamily. TNFRSF19/TROY expression is detected in the pulmonary epithelium and the ductal epithelium of the prostate and parotid glands. TNFRSF19/TROY expression is detected in some adenocarcinoma cell lines that arise from this tissue. It has been shown to interact with TRAF family members, and to activate JNK signaling pathway when overexpressed in cells. TNFRSF19/TROY is capable of inducing apoptosis by a caspase-independent mechanism, and it is thought to play an essential role in embryonic development. TNFRSF19/TROY was negatively regulated by adipogenic transcription factor CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBP). TNFRSF19 signals activation of the Jnk pathway and induces cell death. Overexpression of TNFRSF19 also signals NFB activation, comparable and similar to that by p75NGFR. TNFRSF19/TROY is capable of activating key signaling pathways of the TNF receptor family, and its predominant expression patterns suggest that it plays a role in the growth and regulation of epithelial tissues.
