Janus kinase 2 (JAK2)

Janus kinase 2 (JAK2) is a protein enzyme that plays a key role in transmitting signals inside cells, particularly in blood cell production and immune function. It is part of a pathway activated when certain hormones or growth factors bind to cell surface receptors, leading to blood cell development and immune responses. Mutations in the JAK2 gene can cause abnormal blood cell growth, leading to disorders like polycythemia vera or essential thrombocythemia. JAK2 inhibitors are drugs designed to block this enzyme's activity, helping manage certain blood cancers and related conditions by regulating overactive cell signaling.