JAK2

JAK2 belongs to a of non-receptor Janus tyrosine kinases, which regulate cellular functions downstream of activated cytokine receptors in the lympho-hematopoietic system. Immunological stimuli, such as interferons and cytokines, induce recruitment of Stat transcription factors to cytokine receptor-associated JAK2. JAK2 then phosphorylates Stat factors, translocates to the nucleus and bind to CIS elements upstream of target gene promoters to regulate transcription. The JAK/Stat pathway is integral to maintaining a normal immune system by stimulating proliferation, differentiation, survival and host resistance to pathogens. Altering JAK/Stat signaling to reduce cytokine induced pro-inflammatory responses represents an attractive target for anti-inflammatory therapies.