D) Knockdown of STAT3 in BAE cells. BAE cells were transfected with siRNAs targeting STAT3. qRT-PCR was performed to examine STAT3 mRNA levels. STAT3 level in siNegative was set as 1. Data from three independent experiments were averaged and shown Data information: Bars and error bars represent mean±SD. All experiments were carried out in three independent studies. siNegative, negative control siRNA not targeting any known genes. Two-way ANOVA was used as statistical test. 