Low molecular weight phosphotyrosine phosphatase (LMW-PTP)

Low molecular weight phosphotyrosine phosphatase (LMW-PTP), encoded by the ACP1 gene, is a small 18 kDa cytosolic enzyme that functions as a key regulator of intracellular signaling pathways [1]. It is a member of the protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) family and is characterized by its ability to dephosphorylate specific phosphotyrosine residues on various substrates, including the insulin receptor, Src kinase, and EphA2 [2]. In the context of oncology, LMW-PTP is often overexpressed and functions as an oncogene, promoting tumor growth, metastasis, and resistance to therapy by modulating growth factor signaling [3]. In metabolic health, it acts as a negative regulator of the insulin signaling pathway, and its inhibition has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity in preclinical models of diabetes and obesity [4]. Although there are currently no FDA-approved drugs targeting LMW-PTP, research into small-molecule inhibitors is active, focusing on achieving high selectivity to avoid off-target effects on other PTPs [5].

Other names

Acid phosphatase 1ACP1Red cell acid phosphataseHAAPHCPTPLMW-PTPase

Competitive or non-competitive inhibition of the catalytic site to prevent dephosphorylation of substrates like the insulin receptor or Src kinase.