Janus Kinase (JAK)

Janus kinases (JAKs) are a family of intracellular, non-receptor tyrosine kinases that play a central role in transducing cytokine-mediated signals via the JAK-STAT pathway. They are essential for cell growth, survival, development, and differentiation, especially within immune and hematopoietic cells. There are four members in the mammalian JAK family: JAK1, JAK2, JAK3, and TYK2. Upon cytokine binding to receptors, JAKs are activated, leading to STAT phosphorylation, dimerization, and translocation to the nucleus to regulate gene transcription. They are vital targets for therapeutic intervention across multiple disease areas.

Other names

JAK familyJAK kinasesJanus kinases

JAK inhibitors block the activity of Janus kinases, preventing the phosphorylation and activation of STAT proteins, thereby inhibiting cytokine-mediated signaling and reducing inflammation and immune responses.