FAQ: TYK2/STAT Pathway & Why TYK2 Therapy Works for Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis

Join Iris Zink, a seasoned rheumatology nurse practitioner with over 25 years of experience, as she explains the TYK2/STAT signaling pathway and the immunologic rationale behind TYK2-directed therapy for treating psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis. This video breaks down how TYK2 inhibitors—like deucravacitinib—selectively target the regulatory domain of the TYK2 enzyme, distinguishing them from traditional JAK inhibitors and minimizing off-target effects.You'll learn how TYK2 plays a critical role in mediating pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-12, IL-23, and type I interferons, all of which contribute to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Iris uses vivid analogies to simplify complex immunologic mechanisms, covering how cytokine signaling triggers downstream inflammation, keratinocyte hyperproliferation, and joint damage in psoriatic conditions.Discover how TYK2 inhibition can "dial down" the immune response without fully shutting it off—providing targeted, effective treatment with fewer side effects.Learn more about TYK2 signaling, cytokine pathways, and innovative therapies in rheumatology at RhAPP.org or download the RhAPP ACE app.