TRAF Interacting Protein (TRAIP)

TRAIP encodes a protein that contains an N-terminal RING finger motif and a putative coiled-coil domain. A similar murine protein interacts with TNFR-associated factor 1 (TRAF1), TNFR-associated factor 2 (TRAF2), and cylindromatosis. The interaction with TRAF2 inhibits TRAF2-mediated nuclear factor kappa-B, subunit 1 activation that is required for cell activation and protection against apoptosis.

Sequence analysis predicted that the 469-amino acid human protein, which is 76% identical to the mouse protein, has an N-terminal RING finger motif and a putative coiled-coil domain. Northern blot analysis revealed highest expression of a 2.1-kb transcript in mouse testis, thymus, and spleen. Expression of Trip was reduced in activated lymphocytes.