Loss of JAK2 regulation via a heterodimeric VHL-SOCS1 E3 ubiquitin ligase underlies Chuvash polycythemia

Individuals with Chuvash polycythemia have an increased red blood cell count and are prone to developing blood clots. Although mutations affecting the VHL protein are known to be causative, the underlying molecular mechanisms have been unclear. Ryan C. Russell et al. now show that VHL targets the key signaling molecule JAK2 for degradation by forming a complex with the SOCS1 protein. The authors also show that JAK2 inhibition has beneficial effects in a mouse model of this disease, pointing to a new therapeutic strategy.