STAT3

Fig1. Schematic overview of STAT3 import, localization, and function in mitochondria. (David Achudhan, 2024)

What is STAT3 protein?

STAT3 gene (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) is a protein coding gene which situated on the long arm of chromosome 17 at locus 17q21. The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the STAT protein family. In response to cytokines and growth factors, STAT family members are phosphorylated by the receptor associated kinases, and then form homo- or heterodimers that translocate to the cell nucleus where they act as transcription activators. This protein is activated through phosphorylation in response to various cytokines and growth factors including IFNs, EGF, IL5, IL6, HGF, LIF and BMP2. This protein mediates the expression of a variety of genes in response to cell stimuli, and thus plays a key role in many cellular processes such as cell growth and apoptosis. This gene also plays a role in regulating host response to viral and bacterial infections. The STAT3 protein is consisted of 770 amino acids and STAT3 molecular weight is approximately 88.1 kDa.

What is the function of STAT3 protein?

Once activated, STAT3 translocates to the nucleus, where it binds to specific DNA sequences and regulates the transcription of target genes involved in cell growth, differentiation, and survival. STAT3 plays a role in controlling cell cycle progression and is involved in the expression of genes that are crucial for cell proliferation and differentiation. STAT3 can have anti-apoptotic effects under certain conditions, such as when activated by the leptin receptor, potentially through the transactivation of BIRC5. STAT3 is essential in the regulation of immune responses, including the development and function of various immune cells. STAT3 is involved in the regulation of inflammatory processes, and its activation is associated with the production of acute-phase proteins.

STAT3 Related Signaling Pathway

Central to STAT3 function is the JAK-STAT signaling pathway, where cytokines and growth factors trigger receptor-associated JAK kinases to phosphorylate STAT3, leading to its dimerization and nuclear translocation to regulate gene expression. STAT3 is a primary mediator of IL-6-type cytokine signaling, which is crucial for inflammatory responses and is implicated in various diseases when dysregulated. STAT3 promotes cell growth and survival by inducing the expression of genes involved in cell cycle progression and inhibiting apoptosis. STAT3 is essential in the development and function of immune cells, influencing processes such as T cell differentiation and natural killer cell activity.

STAT3 Related Diseases

Its abnormal activation is often observed in various cancers, where it can foster uncontrolled cell proliferation and resistance to cell death, playing a role in tumor progression and metastasis. Autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis, also involve STAT3 due to its impact on immune cell regulation and inflammation. Additionally, STAT3 contributes to inflammatory bowel disease through its role in intestinal inflammation and immune response modulation. The protein's involvement extends to cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, where it may affect vascular cell behavior and contribute to plaque formation. In the context of infectious diseases, STAT3's activation can modulate the host's response to pathogens. Furthermore, STAT3 has been implicated in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, potentially influencing neuroinflammation and neuronal survival.

Bioapplications of STAT3

Bioapplications include the development of small molecule inhibitors and other modalities designed to modulate STAT3 activity, potentially leading to novel cancer treatments. The identification of STAT3 as a key player in various diseases has spurred the search for specific inhibitors and antagonists, which are being explored for their potential use in treating STAT3-related pathologies. STAT3's differential expression in disease states makes it a candidate for diagnostic biomarkers, aiding in the early detection and stratification of patients with STAT3-associated diseases. STAT3's involvement in multiple pathways makes it a subject of research for target validation in drug discovery, ensuring that interventions are effective and specific.