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STAT3
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STAT3On this page:
Reviewed February 2008
What is the official name of the STAT3 gene?The official name of this gene is “signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (acute-phase response factor).” STAT3 is the gene's official symbol. The STAT3 gene is also known by other names, listed below. Read more about gene names and symbols on the About page. What is the normal function of the STAT3 gene?The STAT3 gene is part of a family known as the STAT genes. These genes provide instructions for making proteins that are part of essential chemical signaling pathways within cells. When STAT proteins are activated by certain chemical signals, they move into the nucleus and attach (bind) to specific areas of DNA. By binding to regulatory regions near genes, STAT proteins can regulate whether these genes are turned on or off. STAT proteins are called transcription factors on the basis of this action. The STAT3 protein is involved in many cellular functions. It regulates genes that are involved in cell growth and division, cell movement, and the self-destruction of cells (apoptosis). The STAT3 protein is active in tissues throughout the body. It plays an important role in the development and function of several body systems and is essential for life. In the immune system, the STAT3 protein transmits signals that help control the body's response to foreign invaders such as bacteria and fungi. In particular, the protein is involved in the regulation of inflammation, which is one way the immune system responds to infection or injury. In the skeletal system, the STAT3 protein is involved in the formation of specialized cells that build and break down bone tissue. These cells are necessary for the normal development and maintenance of bones. How are changes in the STAT3 gene related to health conditions?
Where is the STAT3 gene located?Cytogenetic Location: 17q21.31 Molecular Location on chromosome 17: base pairs 40,465,342 to 40,540,512 The STAT3 gene is located on the long (q) arm of chromosome 17 at position 21.31. More precisely, the STAT3 gene is located from base pair 40,465,342 to base pair 40,540,512 on chromosome 17. See How do geneticists indicate the location of a gene? in the Handbook. Where can I find additional information about STAT3?You and your healthcare professional may find the following resources about STAT3 helpful.
You may also be interested in these resources, which are designed for genetics professionals and researchers.
What other names do people use for the STAT3 gene or gene products?
See How are genetic conditions and genes named? in the Handbook. Where can I find general information about genes?The Handbook provides basic information about genetics in clear language.
These links provide additional genetics resources that may be useful. What glossary definitions help with understanding STAT3?acids ; acute ; amino acid ; apoptosis ; bacteria ; cancer ; cell ; constitutive ; cytokine ; DNA ; fungus ; gene ; immune system ; infection ; inflammation ; injury ; kinase ; leukemia ; lymphoma ; mutation ; nucleus ; pancreas ; prostate ; protein ; regulatory regions ; syndrome ; tissue ; transcription ; transcription factor You may find definitions for these and many other terms in the Genetics Home Reference Glossary. See also Understanding Medical Terminology.
References (9 links)
The resources on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Users seeking information about a personal genetic disease, syndrome, or condition should consult with a qualified healthcare professional. See How can I find a genetics professional in my area? in the Handbook. |