Targeting signal transducer and activator of transcription signaling pathway in leukemias.

Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins comprise a seven-member family of latent cytoplasmic transcription factors that are activated through tyrosine phosphorylation by a variety of cytokines and growth factors. Aberrant activation of STATs accompanies malignant cellular transformation with resultant leukemogenesis. Constitutive activation of STATs has been demonstrated in various leukemias. A better understanding of the mechanisms of dysregulation of the STAT pathway and understanding of the cause and effect relationship in leukemogenesis may serve as a basis for designing novel therapeutic strategies directed against STATs. Mechanisms of STAT activation, the potential role of STAT signaling in leukemogenesis, and recent advances in drug discovery targeting the STAT pathway are the focus of this review.