TRAIL induces endocytosis of its death receptors in MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells

Abstract

TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) is a promising anticancer agent that

selectively induces apoptosis in cancer cells over normal cells.  Here, we show that

TRAIL undergoes rapid endocytosis with its death receptors DR4, and likely DR5, in

MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cells.   The internalized DR4, but not DR5, is

cleaved in a caspase-dependent manner.  Blockade of receptor internalization does not

prevent caspase activation, but rather enhances apoptosis after TRAIL treatment. 

TRAIL-induced receptor endocytosis appears to undermine its ability in inducing

apoptosis.