Overview:

STAT2 (Signal transducer and activator of transcription) is a family member of STAT transcription factors that are implicated in programming gene expression in biological events as diverse as embryonic development, programmed cell death, organogenesis, innate immunity, adaptive immunity and cell growth regulation (1). JAKs can phosphorylate and activate STATs. Activation of the JAK/STAT pathway in response to cytokine action can lead to regulation of gene expression during proliferation and differentiation of the immune cells. STATs have been shown to be involved in inflammation, autoimmune and allergic diseases (2).

References:

1. Horvath, C.M.: STAT proteins and transcriptional responses to extracellular signals. Trends Biochem Sci. 2000 Oct;25(10):496-502.

2. Pfitzner, E. et al: The role of STATs in inflammation and inflammatory diseases. Curr Pharm Des. 2004;10(23):2839-50.