JAK2

A gene on chromosome 9p24 that encodes a non-receptor protein tyrosine kinase, which is involved in a subset of cytokine receptor signalling pathways, including for cell growth, development, differentiation and histone modifications. JAK2 mediates essential signalling events in both innate and adaptive immunity, and is required for responses to gamma interferon. It plays a key role in signal transduction by associating with type-I receptors (e.g., growth hormone (GHR), prolactin (PRLR), leptin (LEPR), erythropoietin (EPOR), thrombopoietin (THPO)) or type-II receptors (e.g., IFN-alpha, IFN-beta, IFN-gamma and a wide range of interleukins).

Acronym

Definition

JAK2➣Janus-Activated Kinase 2

JAK2➣Janus Family Kinase-2 (endocrinology)

JAK2➣Just Another Kinase 2 (now Janus-Activated Kinase 2; biochemistry)