“Targeting the STAT3 signaling pathway in cancer and senescence”

STAT3 signaling pathway plays important roles in many cellular processes, such as cell differentiation, carcinogenesis, cellular senescence or regulation of the immune responses. The STAT3 molecule thus represents an attractive therapeutic target. However, its druggability is still questionable. We have tested a number of small molecules designed to inhibit STAT3 phosphorylation for their inhibitory capabilities and impacts on the tumor cell growth. Importantly, we have documented that selected compounds with limited cytotoxicity were able to inhibit secretion of immunosuppressive cytokines by senescent cells. These results suggest that the STAT3 inhibitors could serve as senomodulatory agents.