Suppressor Of Cytokine Signaling 3 Protein

Background

SOCS3 is a key negative regulator of cytokine signaling that inhibits JAK/STAT signaling pathways by binding to cytokine receptors, such as the IL-6 and leptin receptors, and targeting them for proteasomal degradation. It directly suppresses JAK kinase activity, preventing STAT phosphorylation and downstream signaling, which controls processes like inflammation, immune cell activation, and energy homeostasis. SOCS3 is highly expressed in immune cells, adipose tissues, and liver, where it modulates cytokine responses, insulin sensitivity, and metabolic regulation. It is critical for limiting excessive inflammation during infections and preventing chronic inflammatory diseases. Dysregulation of SOCS3 is implicated in autoimmune diseases, metabolic disorders like obesity and insulin resistance, and cancer, where it affects cytokine balance and cellular proliferation. Knockout studies reveal embryonic lethality, hyperactivated cytokine signaling, and increased susceptibility to inflammatory and metabolic diseases, underscoring its pivotal role in immune regulation and cytokine signaling control.