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Review
. 2023 Oct 2;21(1):272.
doi: 10.1186/s12964-023-01240-y.

Double-edged sword of JAK/STAT signaling pathway in viral infections: novel insights into virotherapy

Mohamad Mahjoor #  1   2 , Golnaz Mahmoudvand #  3 , Simin Farokhi  3 , Alireza Shadab  4   5 , Mojtaba Kashfi  6   7   8 , Hamed Afkhami  9   10   11
Affiliations
Review

Double-edged sword of JAK/STAT signaling pathway in viral infections: novel insights into virotherapy

Mohamad Mahjoor et al. Cell Commun Signal. .

Abstract

The Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) is an intricate signaling cascade composed of various cytokines, interferons (IFN, growth factors, and other molecules. This pathway provides a delicate mechanism through which extracellular factors adjust gene expression, thereby acting as a substantial basis for environmental signals to influence cell growth and differentiation. The interactions between the JAK/STAT cascade and antiviral IFNs are critical to the host's immune response against viral microorganisms. Recently, with the emergence of therapeutic classes that target JAKs, the significance of this cascade has been recognized in an unprecedented way. Despite the functions of the JAK/STAT pathway in adjusting immune responses against viral pathogens, a vast body of evidence proposes the role of this cascade in the replication and pathogenesis of viral pathogens. In this article, we review the structure of the JAK/STAT signaling cascade and its role in immuno-inflammatory responses. We also highlight the paradoxical effects of this pathway in the pathogenesis of viral infections. Video Abstract.

Keywords: Antiviral; Cytokine; Inflammation; Interferon; JAK/STAT signaling pathway.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no competing interests.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Cytokines secreted in battlefields provoke both innate and adaptive responses against pathogens
Fig. 2
Fig. 2
Double-edged role of JAK/STAT signaling cascade in viral infections
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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