A protein designated TRAIL receptor binds the protein known as TNF-Related Apoptosis-Inducing Ligand (TRAIL). The TRAIL receptor finds use in purifying TRAIL or inhibiting activities thereof. Isolated DNA sequences encoding TRAIL-R polypeptides are provided, along with expression vectors containing the DNA sequences, and host cells transformed with such recombinant expression vectors. Antibodies that are immunoreactive with TRAIL-R are also provided.