JAK2

JAK2 is a Janus-family tyrosine kinase that pairs with family members downstream of hematopoietic cytokine receptors, including those for erythropoietin, thrombopoietin, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, and growth hormone. Upon cytokine engagement, JAK2 becomes activated and phosphorylates STAT5 and related transcription factors, directing erythroid and megakaryocytic development. The somatic substitution V617F within the pseudokinase domain is the defining lesion of the classic myeloproliferative neoplasms polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia, and primary myelofibrosis, where it causes cytokine-independent signaling. Ruxolitinib and fedratinib, inhibitors acting on JAK2, are approved for myelofibrosis and related conditions, underscoring the kinase's clinical importance.