Role of SHP2 in invasion and metastasis of breast cancer

Src homology 2 domain-containing phosphatase (SHP2), which is encoded by proto-oncogene PTPN11, is one of the transmembrane protein-tyrosine phosphatases. SHP2 has an important function in signal transduction pathways and activities of cells through the regulation of tyrosine phosphorylation level of intracellular proteins. The status of SHP2 activation is closely connected with the regulation of hormone levels, state of invasion and metastasis of tumor, development and progression of tumor stem cells of breast cancer, as well as signal pathways including Ras/ERK and PI3K/Akt/mTOR. Gene knockout or gene silencing expression helps inhibit tumor growth, irreversibly hindering the ability of the tumor to regain stem cells and disturb the signal pathways of the invasion and metastasis of breast cancer. Recent studies have shown that SHP2 may help in bringing anticancer drugs to a higher level. This article concentrates on the research progress in relationship of SHP2 with invasion and metastasis of breast cancer.