TNFSF13B
Description
The TNFSF13B (TNF superfamily member 13b) is a protein-coding gene located on chromosome 13.
TNFSF13B, also known as B-cell activating factor (BAFF), tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 13B, and CD257, is a protein encoded by the TNFSF13B gene in humans. BAFF is also called B Lymphocyte Stimulator (BLyS), TNF- and APOL-related leukocyte expressed ligand (TALL-1), and Dendritic cell-derived TNF-like molecule (CD257 antigen; cluster of differentiation 257). BAFF is a cytokine belonging to the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) ligand family, acting as a ligand for the receptors TNFRSF13B/TACI, TNFRSF17/BCMA, and TNFRSF13C/BAFF-R. Primarily expressed in B cell lineage cells, it strongly activates B cells. BAFF is crucial for B cell proliferation and differentiation. This 285-amino acid long peptide glycoprotein undergoes glycosylation at residue 124. Expressed as a membrane-bound type II transmembrane protein on various cell types including monocytes, dendritic cells, and bone marrow stromal cells, the transmembrane form can be cleaved, generating a soluble protein fragment. BAFF concentrations are influenced by B cells and the expression of BAFF-binding receptors. BAFF is the natural ligand for three nonconventional tumor necrosis factor receptors: BAFF-R (BR3), TACI (transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor), and BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen), all with varying binding affinities.
TNFSF13B (BAFF) and TNFSF13 (APRIL) are two cytokines that bind to the same two receptors, TNFRSF13B/TACI and TNFRSF17/BCMA. This interaction forms a signaling pathway that stimulates B- and T-cell function and regulates humoral immunity. Additionally, a third receptor, BAFF-R/BR3, specific to B cells, promotes the survival of mature B cells and their immune response.
TNFSF13B is also known as BAFF, BLYS, CD257, DTL, TALL-1, TALL1, THANK, TNFSF20, TNLG7A, ZTNF4.
