The JAK-STAT pathway is crucial for how our bodies respond to cytokines, which are important signaling molecules. The JAK family and STAT family of proteins work together in this pathway. Knockout mice studies have shown that these proteins are essential for cytokine signaling. The JAK family helps transmit signals from cytokine receptors, while STAT proteins respond to specific cytokines. The activity of the JAK-STAT pathway is controlled by proteins like the SOCS family. These proteins can dampen down cytokine signaling when needed.