The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the TNF-receptor superfamily. This receptor was identified as a cellular mediator of herpes simplex virus (HSV) entry. Binding of HSV viral envelope glycoprotein D (gD) to this receptor protein has been shown to be part of the viral entry mechanism. The cytoplasmic region of this receptor was found to bind to several TRAF family members, which may mediate the signal transduction pathways that activate the immune response. [provided by RefSeq, Jul 2008]