Low molecular weight protein tyrosine phosphatase (LMW-PTP)

Low molecular weight protein tyrosine phosphatase (LMW-PTP) is an ~18 kDa enzyme belonging to the family of protein tyrosine phosphatases that remove phosphate groups from phosphotyrosine residues in target proteins. It is widely expressed and is the predominant tyrosine phosphatase in some tissues (for example, the eye lens). LMW-PTP regulates various signaling pathways involved in cell growth, proliferation, metabolism, and malignant transformation. Overexpression or increased activity of LMW-PTP is associated with oncogenesis in cancers such as breast, colon, bladder, kidney, prostate, and colorectal cancer, where it promotes cell migration, metastatic potential, and resistance to chemotherapy. LMW-PTP also negatively regulates insulin signaling, linking it to type 2 diabetes and obesity. Its role as a biomarker and therapeutic target is under active investigation, with selective inhibitors being developed for research and clinical applications, although selectivity and delivery remain significant challenges.

Other names

LMWPTPLMW-PTPLMW PTPLMW-PTPaseLow molecular weight phosphotyrosine protein phosphatase

Competitive inhibition of LMW-PTP enzymatic activity. Inhibition leads to altered phosphorylation states in target substrates, affecting pathways like insulin signaling or oncogenic tyrosine kinase activity.