TNF-related activation-induced cytokine (TRANCE), also known as tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 11 (TNFSF11), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL), is a member of the TNF superfamily. Cells known to express TRANCE include osteoblasts, CD4 and CD8 T cells, megakaryocytes, bronchial and intestinal epithelium and so on.
TRANCE appears to play a central role in both immune response and bone morphogenesis. During bone development and remodeling, TRANCE expression by osteoblasts in conjunction with M-CSF induces osteoclast formation and activation, resulting in bone resorption. This allows for subsequent bone deposition and remodeling. TRANCE also plays a role in pathological osteoporosis. Its inappropriate expression by activated lymphocytes and osteoblasts results in excessive joint and bone resorption vs. deposition. Overproduction of TRANCE is implicated in a variety of degenerative bone diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.