Gene:
tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily, member 11b (osteoprotegerin)
Gene ID:
191921
Symbol:
TNFRSF11B
Species:
1000
Description:
The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the TNF-receptor superfamily. This protein is an osteoblast-secreted decoy receptor that functions as a negative regulator of bone resorption. This protein specifically binds to its ligand, osteoprotegerin ligand (TNFSF11/OPGL), both of which are key extracellular regulators of osteoclast development. Studies of the mouse counterpart also suggest this protein and its ligand play a role in lymph-node organogenesis and vascular calcification. Alternatively spliced transcript variants of this gene have been reported, but their full length nature has not been determined.