Fast Facts about JAK2

What's JAK2? a molecule called an enzyme that exists in all people.

When was the JAK2 mutation discovered? Researchers made a dramatic discovery in 2005 when they found a mutation in the JAK2 molecule in people who have MPDs.

Who has this mutation? Nearly all people with PV and about half those with ET and MF have the mutation. People are not born with it but develop it during their lives, most often in adulthood.

What does JAK2 do? This enzyme is part of a messaging system inside the bone-producing cells (or stem cells) in our bone marrow. When a mutation occurs, the messaging system goes haywire, causing the stem cells to produce too many blood cells, resulting in myeloproliferative disorders.

What's next in JAK2 research? Researchers are currently testing "designer drugs" that target the JAK2 mutation. We hope in the future these drugs will control or cure myeloproliferative disorders.

To read the latest news on the JAK2 trials in the United Kingdom please click here:
Latest news on the JAK2 inhibitor trials in the UK

Read more in-depth information about JAK2 here:
JAK2: Your questions answered

Read more about clinical trials in the United States on these websites:
MPD Foundation
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
National Cancer Institute (NCI)