The STAT3 paradox in aging: Molecular mechanisms and targeted therapeutic strategies

Population aging has become a global challenge, with its molecular mechanisms incompletely understood. The signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), a pleiotropic cytoplasmic transcription factor, is extensively involved in almost all hallmarks of aging, exhibiting paradoxical dual roles in senescence progression. This review summarizes the structure of STAT3 and its key posttranslational modifications (PTMs), including phosphorylation (Y705, S727), acetylation, and methylation, which critically regulate its activity and subcellular localization. Notably, STAT3 Y705 phosphorylation predominantly promotes aging in multiple organ systems by driving inflammation, fibrosis, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) while its anti-aging effect is mainly reflected in promoting tissue protection, optimizing mitochondrial function, and inhibiting inflammation/ROS accumulation in specific cell types. S727 phosphorylation of STAT3 exerts potential anti-aging effects by maintaining stem cell properties and tissue regenerative capacity. Other PTMs, such as sulphenylation and O-GlcNAcylation, also modulate STAT3-mediated aging processes. The paradoxical roles of STAT3 are attributed to cellular/tissue specificity, crosstalk with other signaling pathways, and temporal activation dynamics. Furthermore, we discuss potential anti-aging strategies targeting STAT3, including small-molecule inhibitors, natural compounds, epigenetic modulators, and gene-based therapies, along with their clinical translation challenges. A nuanced understanding of context-dependent STAT3 signaling and precise targeting of its PTMs will be crucial for developing effective therapies to promote healthy aging.