Function
XAF1 (XIAP-associated factor 1) is a protein that acts as a negative regulator of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family. It directly interacts with BIRC4 (also known as X-linked IAP or XIAP) and inhibits its anti-caspase activity. XAF1 promotes the cleavage and inactivation of BIRC4, independent of caspase activation, thus initiating apoptosis. XAF1 mediates TNF-alpha-induced apoptosis and is involved in apoptosis in trophoblast cells. It may also indirectly inhibit BIRC4 by activating the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway, promoting the translocation of BAX to mitochondria and releasing cytochrome c. XAF1 may promote the redistribution of BIRC4 from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, potentially independent of BIRC4 inactivation. The BIRC4-XAF1 complex downregulates BIRC5 (survivin), a process requiring the E3 ligase activity of BIRC4. XAF1 is involved in cellular sensitivity to the proapoptotic actions of TRAIL. It may function as a tumor suppressor by mediating apoptosis resistance in cancer cells.