TNF receptors function by binding to their ligand, TNF-α, which triggers a cascade of intracellular signaling pathways. Upon binding, TNFR1 can activate the NF-κB pathway, which promotes cell survival and inflammation. Alternatively, it can activate caspases leading to apoptosis. TNFR2 primarily signals through the NF-κB and MAPK pathways, promoting cell survival and proliferation.