- SHP-2 (PTPN11) is a widely expressed protein tyrosine phosphatase that plays crucial roles in various cellular processes throughout the body. This enzyme demonstrates ubiquitous expression across most cell types, though its levels and specific functions vary depending on the tissue context and developmental stage.
- During embryonic development, SHP-2 shows particularly high expression in neural crest cells, developing heart tissue, and growing bone. This expression pattern aligns with its critical role in embryogenesis, where it regulates key developmental signaling pathways. The enzyme’s presence in embryonic stem cells also highlights its importance in early development and cellular differentiation.
- In the immune system, SHP-2 is prominently expressed in T cells, B cells, and myeloid cells, where it regulates immune cell development, activation, and function. The nervous system also shows significant SHP-2 expression, with both neurons and glial cells utilizing this phosphatase for various signaling processes. In the cardiovascular system, SHP-2 is found in cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells, where it participates in heart development and function.
- At the subcellular level, SHP-2 is primarily located in the cytoplasm but can dynamically relocate to different cellular compartments as needed. It can be recruited to the plasma membrane, focal adhesions, and cell-cell junctions in response to various stimuli. This mobility is essential for its function in signal transduction, as it allows SHP-2 to interact with different substrates and signaling partners in different cellular contexts.
- The broad tissue expression of SHP-2 reflects its fundamental importance in cell signaling, development, growth, differentiation, and migration. Its expression patterns are tightly regulated, and disruptions in either its expression or function can lead to various developmental disorders and diseases, particularly those affecting the heart, immune system, and development.
