Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT)

Signal Transducers and Activators of Transcription (STAT) are proteins inside cells that transmit signals from the cell surface to the nucleus, where they influence gene activity. They typically become activated when signaling molecules called cytokines or growth factors bind to cell receptors, causing STATs to change form, move into the nucleus, and turn specific genes on or off. This process helps the cell respond appropriately to external signals, regulating critical functions like growth, immune response, and development. In essence, STATs act as messengers that translate signals from outside the cell into changes in gene expression.