Role of STAT3 in Colorectal Cancer Development

Abstract

Colorectal cancer is the cancer of the colon, located at the lower part of the digestive system. Although the role of STAT3 in cancer is known, its role particularly in colon cancer is largely unknown. STAT3 is a cytoplasmic transcription factor that involves extracellular signaling to the nucleus regulating fundamental functions, like cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation, and angiogenesis. STAT3 is a key regulator; abrogated activation leads to several diseases, including cancer. Aberrant interleukin (IL)-6-mediated JAK/STAT3 signaling pathway is closely related to the advancement of several human solid tumors including colorectal cancer. With other upstream regulators, IL-6/JAK signaling can activate STAT3, and its role appears to be critical in various types of cancer. STAT3 has been traditionally recognized as an oncogene; more recently the dual role of STAT3 in cancer, either tumor inductive or suppressive, has been appreciated. This chapter describes the potential role of STAT3 in colon cancer based on in vitro, in vivo, and patient studies. Furthermore, we will discuss the mechanism of action and roles of the IL-6/JAK/STAT3 pathway in colorectal cancer and exploit current therapeutic strategies, to treat colorectal cancer. Understanding the complexity of STAT3 function in colorectal cancer has the potential to elucidate important molecular aspects of colorectal cancer with significant therapeutic implications.