TRAF5

TRAF5, or TNF receptor-associated factor 5, is a cytoplasmic adaptor protein involved in mediating signaling from TNF receptors and Toll-like receptors. It functions as a scaffold, recruiting downstream kinases like MEKK3 to activate NF-κB and MAPK pathways, thereby regulating immune responses and inflammation.
Aberrant TRAF5 activity is linked to autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Its role in B-cell activation also implicates it in lymphoma development. While no direct TRAF5-targeted drugs are approved, preclinical studies explore small-molecule inhibitors to modulate its scaffolding function in inflammatory disorders.