Overview:

TRAF2 (also known as TNF receptor-associated factor 2) belongs to the TNF receptor associated factor (TRAF) protein family that mediates signal transduction from members of the TNF receptor superfamily (1). TRAF2 is involved in TNF-alpha-mediated activation of MAPK8/JNK and NF-κB pathway. TRAF2 interacts with TNF receptors and forms a heterodimeric complex with TRAF1. The TRAF1-TRAF2 complex interacts with IAPs to mediate the anti-apoptotic signals from TNF receptors. TRAF2 also interacts with TRADD, a TNF receptor associated apoptotic signal transducer, to ensure the recruitment of IAPs for the direct inhibition of caspase activation (2).

References:

1. Wajant, H. Et al: The TNF-receptor-associated factor family: scaffold molecules for cytokine receptors, kinases and their regulators.". Cell. Signal. 2001;13 (6): 389–400.2. Bradley, J.R., Pober, J.S. Tumor necrosis factor receptor-associated factors (TRAFs).". Oncogene,2001; 20 (44): 6482–9.