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Physiological significance of STAT proteins: investigations through gene disruption in vivo

D E Levy1

  • 1Department of Pathology, New York University School of Medicine, New York 10016, USA. levyd01@med.nyu.edu

Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences : CMLS
|October 20, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) mediate interferon responses. Gene disruption in mice reveals STAT selectivity and complex roles in immune signaling pathways.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Immunology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STATs) are key mediators of type I interferon signaling.
  • STAT proteins are involved in numerous cytokine-driven immune response pathways.
  • Previous studies using cell cultures presented a complex picture of STAT activators.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To define the physiologically relevant functions of STAT proteins.
  • To characterize the roles of all seven STAT genes in vivo.

Main Methods:

  • Targeted gene disruption of all seven STAT genes in transgenic mice.
  • Analysis of STAT selectivity and function in vivo.

Main Results:

  • Characterization of STAT selectivity is ongoing.
  • Unexpected complexities in STAT function are being uncovered.
  • Insights into the in vivo roles of STATs are emerging.

Conclusions:

  • STAT gene disruption in mice is a powerful tool for understanding STAT function.
  • In vivo studies are revealing the specific and complex roles of STATs in biological processes.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the STAT signaling network.

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