Role of Stat3 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Introduction Nasopharyngeal carcinoma is an Epstein–Barr virus-associated head and neck cancer which is most common in eastern Asia. Epstein–Barr virus infection, environmental factors and genetic susceptibility play important roles in nasopharyngeal carcinoma pathogenesis. Correlation of signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (Stat3) overexpression with poor prognosis for nasopharyngeal carcinoma provides evidence that it is involved in the tumourigenic process. In this review, we highlight recent advances in studies on the oncogenic role of Stat3 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma and its potential as a therapeutic target for this cancer. Conclusion Despite different approaches to identify small molecules that effectively inhibit Stat3 signalling, further studies will be needed to make these molecules more effective for improved clinical outcomes.