Vaccinia virus blocks Stat1-dependent and Stat1-independent gene expression induced by type I and type II interferons.

Blocking the function of Stat (signal transducer and activator of transcription) proteins, which are critical for antiviral responses, has evolved as a common mechanism for pathogen immune evasion. The poxvirus-encoded phosphatase H1 is critical for viral replication, and may play an additional role in the evasion of host defense by dephosphorylating Stat1 and blocking interferon (IFN)-stimulated innate immune responses. Vaccinia virus (VACV) H1 can inhibit the phosphorylation of the transcription factor Stat1 after IFN-gamma stimulation of epithelial cells, greatly attenuating IFN-induced biological functions.

Bruton's tyrosine kinase is required for TLR-induced IL-10 production.

Bruton's tyrosine kinase (Btk) is a critical signaling mediator downstream of the B cell Ag receptor. X-linked agammaglobulinemia is caused by mutations in Btk resulting in multiple defects in B cell development and function, and recurrent bacterial infections. Recent evidence has also supported a role for Btk in TLR signaling.