The protein encoded by this gene is a member of the STAT family of transcription factors. In response to cytokines and growth factors, STAT family members are phosphorylated by the receptor associated kinases, and then form homo- or heterodimers that translocate to the cell nucleus where they act as transcription activators. Stat6 is activated via phosphorylation at Tyr641 and is required for responsiveness to IL-4 and IL-13. In addition, Stat6 is activated by IFN-α in B cells, where it forms transcriptionally active complexes with Stat2 and p48. Protein phosphatase 2A is also involved in regulation of IL-4-mediated Stat6 signaling.
