Cytokines are critical for normal cell growth and immunoregulation but also 
contribute to growth of malignant cells and drive immune-mediated disease. A 
large subset of immunoregulatory cytokines uses the type I and type II cytokine 
receptors and pharmacological targeting of these cytokines/cytokines receptors 
has proven to be efficacious in treating immune and inflammatory diseases. These 
receptors rely on Janus family of kinases (Jaks) for signal transduction. 
Recently the first Jak inhibitor (jakinib) has been approved by the FDA and a 
second has been recommended for approval. Many other Jakinibs are likely to 
follow and in this brief review, we will discuss the state-of-the art of this 
new class of pharmacological agents.