Description
Lymphotoxin beta receptor (LTbR), a receptor for lymphotoxin, is a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) family of receptors. It is expressed on the surface of most cell types, including cells of epithelial and myeloid lineages. LTBR specifically binds the lymphotoxin membrane form (a complex of lymphotoxin-alpha and lymphtoxin-beta). The encoded protein and its ligand play a role in the development and organization of lymphoid tissue and tranformed cells. Activation of the encoded protein can trigger apoptosis. LTbR pathway is important in the development and maintenance of lymphoid structures. Blocking this pathway has proved beneficial in autoimmune diseases such as diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis.1