Therapeutic modulators of STAT signalling for human diseases
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Published on: June 6, 2025
Gabriella Miklossy1, Tyvette S Hilliard, James Turkson
1Cancer Biology, and Natural Products and Experimental Therapeutics Programs, University of Hawaii Cancer Center, 701 Ilalo Street, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813, USA.
Abstract:
The signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins have important roles in biological processes. The abnormal activation of STAT signalling pathways is also implicated in many human diseases, including cancer, autoimmune diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and diabetes. Over a decade has passed since the first inhibitor of a STAT protein was reported and efforts to discover modulators of STAT signalling as therapeutics continue. This Review discusses the outcomes of the ongoing drug discovery research endeavours against STAT proteins, provides perspectives on new directions for accelerating the discovery of drug candidates, and highlights the noteworthy candidate therapeutics that have progressed to clinical trials.
Insights
Drug discovery efforts targeting signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins continue, with ongoing research into modulators for various diseases. This review highlights successful clinical trial candidates and future directions for STAT-targeted therapeutics.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins regulate critical biological processes.
- Aberrant STAT signaling is linked to numerous diseases, including cancer, autoimmune disorders, and diabetes.
- Developing STAT protein inhibitors has been an active area of research for over a decade.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the progress of drug discovery research targeting STAT proteins.
- To provide insights into novel strategies for accelerating the development of STAT-targeting drugs.
- To highlight promising therapeutic candidates that have advanced into clinical trials.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of drug discovery research on STAT proteins.
- Analysis of outcomes from ongoing research endeavors.
- Identification and summary of STAT-targeting drug candidates in clinical development.
Main Results:
- Significant research efforts have been dedicated to discovering STAT protein modulators.
- Several therapeutic candidates targeting STAT signaling pathways have progressed to clinical trials.
- The review synthesizes current findings and identifies key areas for future research.
Conclusions:
- Continued investigation into STAT protein modulators holds therapeutic potential for various diseases.
- Accelerated drug discovery strategies are needed to advance novel STAT-targeting agents.
- Clinical trial progress indicates the viability of STAT-targeted therapies.
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