signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)

Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) proteins are molecules inside cells that transmit signals from the cell surface to the nucleus to influence gene expression. When certain signals, like hormones or growth factors, bind to receptors on the cell surface, they activate STAT proteins. These proteins then move into the nucleus, where they turn specific genes on or off, guiding cell functions such as growth, development, or immune responses. Essentially, STAT proteins serve as messengers that help cells respond appropriately to their environment by regulating gene activity.