The STAT3 gene is part of a group of proteins that play important roles in controlling cell growth, survival, and other functions in the body. These proteins are activated by specific signals and move into the cell nucleus to turn on genes that are needed for various processes. The activation of STAT3 involves a series of steps, including being phosphorylated and forming dimers that can bind to DNA. This process ultimately leads to the activation of genes that are important for the body's response to different signals.