JAK2, or Janus Kinase 2, is a protein that plays a crucial role in the signaling pathways of various cytokines and growth factors. It is one of the four members of the Janus kinase family, which also includes JAK1, JAK3, and TYK2. JAK2 is primarily involved in the phosphorylation and activation of signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) proteins, which regulate gene expression and are essential for numerous biological processes, including cell growth, differentiation, and immune function.