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Updated: May 19, 2026

Assessing Cellular Target Engagement by SHP2 (PTPN11) Phosphatase Inhibitors
Published on: July 17, 2020
Dual faces of SH2-containing protein-tyrosine phosphatase Shp2/PTPN11 in tumorigenesis
Shuangwei Li1, Diane DiFang Hsu, Hongyang Wang
1Department of Pathology, and Division of Biological Sciences, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093-0864, USA.
Abstract:
PTPN11, which encodes tyrosine phosphatase Shp2, is a critical gene mediating cellular responses to hormones and cytokines. Against original prediction as tumor suppressor for tyrosine phosphatases, PTPN11 was first identified as a proto-oncogene because activating mutations of this gene are associated with leukemogenesis. However, most recent experimental data suggest PTPN11/Shp2 acting as a tumor suppressor in hepatocarcinogenesis. This review focuses on the tumor-promoting or suppressing roles of the gene PTPN11/Shp2 in different cell types.
Insights
The PTPN11 gene, encoding tyrosine phosphatase Shp2, has dual roles. Initially seen as a tumor suppressor, it
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Oncology
- Genetics
Background:
- The PTPN11 gene encodes tyrosine phosphatase Shp2, crucial for cellular signaling.
- Tyrosine phosphatases were initially predicted to be tumor suppressors.
- PTPN11 was identified as a proto-oncogene due to its association with leukemogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the contrasting roles of PTPN11/Shp2 in cancer.
- To explore its function as a tumor promoter versus a tumor suppressor.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental data.
- Analysis of PTPN11/Shp2's role in different cell types.
Main Results:
- PTPN11/Shp2 acts as a proto-oncogene in leukemogenesis.
- Recent findings indicate PTPN11/Shp2 functions as a tumor suppressor in hepatocarcinogenesis.
Conclusions:
- The role of PTPN11/Shp2 in cancer is context-dependent.
- Further research is needed to elucidate its dual function in various cancers.
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