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Updated: Jan 20, 2026
Master Transcription Regulators
STAT3, a Master Regulator of Anti-Tumor Immune Response
Cédric Rébé1, François Ghiringhelli2
1Platform of Transfer in Cancer Biology, Centre Georges François Leclerc, INSERM LNC UMR1231,University of Bourgogne Franche-Comté, F-21000 Dijon, France. crebe@cgfl.fr.
Abstract:
Immune cells in the tumor microenvironment regulate cancer growth. Thus cancer progression is dependent on the activation or repression of transcription programs involved in the proliferation/activation of lymphoid and myeloid cells. One of the main transcription factors involved in many of these pathways is the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3). In this review we will focus on the role of STAT3 and its regulation, e.g. by phosphorylation or acetylation in immune cells and how it might impact immune cell function and tumor progression. Moreover, we will review the ability of STAT3 to regulate checkpoint inhibitors.
Insights
Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) plays a key role in immune cell regulation within the tumor microenvironment. This review explores STAT3
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cancer Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Immune cells within the tumor microenvironment critically influence cancer progression.
- Cancer growth is regulated by transcription programs controlling lymphoid and myeloid cell proliferation and activation.
- Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a key transcription factor in these regulatory pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted role of STAT3 in immune cells within the tumor microenvironment.
- To examine STAT3 regulation, including phosphorylation and acetylation, and its impact on immune cell function.
- To explore STAT3's influence on tumor progression and its ability to modulate immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on STAT3 function in cancer immunology.
- Analysis of STAT3 regulatory mechanisms (phosphorylation, acetylation).
- Examination of STAT3's role in immune cell activity and tumor development.
Main Results:
- STAT3 is a central regulator of immune cell proliferation and activation.
- STAT3 activity is modulated by post-translational modifications like phosphorylation and acetylation.
- STAT3 influences tumor progression and immune checkpoint inhibitor regulation.
Conclusions:
- STAT3 is a critical mediator of immune responses in the tumor microenvironment.
- Understanding STAT3 regulation offers potential therapeutic strategies for cancer.
- Targeting STAT3 may impact tumor progression and enhance immunotherapy efficacy.
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