STAT proteins are latent cytoplasmic transcription factors activated by various extracellular signaling proteins.
STAT proteins can up-regulate various target genes and result in uncontrolled cellular proliferation, anti-apoptotic responses, and angiogenesis.
Activated STAT3 levels may be elevated in oral cancer via up-regulation of the EGFR, TGF-α, Jak, Src, or interleukin-6 (IL-6) signaling pathways.
Activated STAT3 is highly expressed in poorly differentiated oral cancers and is correlated with metastasis and a poor prognosis.