We first identified Stat3 as a novel downstream target of CRHR2/Ucn2 signaling in CRC, by demonstrating significant suppression of IL-6-mediated Stat3 (Tyr703) phosphorylation after CRHR2 induction and activation by Ucn2, followed by decreased cell proliferation in vitro and diminished tumor growth in vivo. The gene discussed is UCN2; the disease is colorectal carcinoma.