Tumor necrosis factor-associated activation inducible factor (TRANCE), also known as tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 11(TNFSF11), nuclear factor κB receptor activating factor ligand (RANKL), is a member of the TNF superfamily. TRANCE can be expressed in osteoblasts, CD4+ and CD8+T cells, megakaryocytes, bronchial and intestinal epithelial cells. TRANCE plays a central role in immune response and bone morphogenesis. During bone formation and remodeling, TRANCE expressed by osteoblasts, together with M-CSF, induces osteoclast formation and activation, leading to bone resorption, which in turn leads to subsequent bone deposition and remodeling. TRANCE also plays a role in pathological osteoporosis. Inappropriate expression of TRANCE by activated lymphocytes and osteoblasts leads to excessive uptake and deposition in joints and bones. Excess TRANCE is associated with many degenerative bone diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.