Abstract
Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins are critical mediators of cytokine signaling. Among the seven STAT proteins, STAT6 is activated by IL-4 and IL-13 and plays a predominant role in the immune system. However, there is increasing evidence that STAT6 may function in other tissues and organ systems. IL-4, IL-13, and STAT6 promote humoral immunity, clearance of helminthic parasites as well as the pathogenesis of allergic disorders like asthma, food allergies, and atopic dermatitis. In this review, we will describe our current understanding of the biological functions of STAT6 and summarize recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms by which STAT6 regulates transcription.