Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 6 (STAT6)

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 6 (STAT6) is a member of the STAT family of transcription factors. It plays a central role in transmitting signals from cytokine receptors to the nucleus, where it regulates gene expression. STAT6 is primarily activated by interleukin-4 (IL-4) and interleukin-13 (IL-13), which are key cytokines involved in immune responses, particularly those associated with T-helper type 2 (Th2) cells. STAT6 signaling is crucial for generating regulatory T cells and influences macrophage polarization. High levels or activity of STAT6 have been observed in various cancers where it can promote tumor proliferation, metastasis, and survival. STAT6 may serve as a biomarker for prognosis or therapeutic targeting, particularly in lung and colon cancer, and NAB2–STAT6 fusions are diagnostic markers for solitary fibrous tumors. IL‑4/STAT6 signaling promotes myoblast fusion during muscle development.

Inhibition of STAT6 signaling