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JAK-STAT Pathway

Meaning

The Janus Kinase-Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription (JAK-STAT) pathway is a critical, rapid intracellular signaling cascade that efficiently transduces signals from a wide array of extracellular molecules, including many peptide hormones, growth factors, and cytokines, directly to the cell nucleus. This pathway is essential for controlling the gene expression programs related to fundamental cellular processes such as immunity, hematopoiesis, and tissue growth and repair. Its dysregulation is associated with chronic inflammatory states, various autoimmune diseases, and certain hormone-sensitive cancers, making it a significant and actionable target for pharmacological intervention.