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The Role of JAK/STAT Pathway in Fibrotic Diseases: Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms
Jia Liu1,2, Faping Wang1,2, Fengming Luo1,2
1Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610041, China.
Abstract:
There are four members of the JAK family and seven of the STAT family in mammals. The JAK/STAT molecular pathway could be activated by broad hormones, cytokines, growth factors, and more. The JAK/STAT signaling pathway extensively mediates various biological processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, migration, apoptosis, and immune regulation. JAK/STAT activation is closely related to growth and development, homeostasis, various solid tumors, inflammatory illness, and autoimmune diseases. Recently, with the deepening understanding of the JAK/STAT pathway, the relationship between JAK/STAT and the pathophysiology of fibrotic diseases was noticed, including the liver, renal, heart, bone marrow, and lung. JAK inhibitor has been approved for myelofibrosis, and subsequently, JAK/STAT may serve as a promising target for fibrosis in other organs. Therefore, this article reviews the roles and mechanisms of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in fibrotic diseases.
Insights
The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway regulates cell functions and is implicated in diseases. This review explores its role in fibrotic diseases, suggesting JAK/STAT as a potential therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cell Biology
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway is a crucial signaling cascade involved in numerous cellular processes.
- This pathway is activated by various extracellular signals including hormones, cytokines, and growth factors.
- Dysregulation of JAK/STAT signaling is linked to diverse conditions such as cancer, inflammation, and autoimmune disorders.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the multifaceted roles and underlying mechanisms of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway in the pathogenesis of fibrotic diseases.
- To explore the potential of targeting the JAK/STAT pathway for therapeutic interventions in organ fibrosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating JAK/STAT signaling in fibrotic conditions.
- Analysis of existing data on JAK inhibitors in treating fibrotic diseases.
Main Results:
- The JAK/STAT pathway plays a significant role in mediating cellular processes relevant to fibrosis across multiple organs (liver, kidney, heart, bone marrow, lung).
- JAK inhibitors have demonstrated efficacy in treating myelofibrosis, indicating therapeutic potential.
- Emerging evidence highlights the involvement of JAK/STAT in the pathophysiology of various fibrotic diseases.
Conclusions:
- The JAK/STAT signaling pathway is a key player in the development and progression of fibrotic diseases.
- Targeting the JAK/STAT pathway represents a promising therapeutic strategy for managing organ fibrosis.
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