The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the TNF-receptor superfamily; and contains an intracellular death domain. This receptor can be activated by tumor necrosis factor-related apoptosis inducing ligand (TNFSF10:TRAIL:APO-2L); and transduces an apoptosis signal. Studies with FADD-deficient mice suggested that FADD; a death domain containing adaptor protein; is required for the apoptosis mediated by this protein. Two transcript variants encoding different isoforms and one non-coding transcript have been found for this gene.