How protein tyrosine phosphatases select their substrates

Protein tyrosine phosphatases (PTPs) are key regulators of cellular communication networks referred to as cellular signalling. The distinct biological functions of PTPs are due to their differential recognition of substrates, however, our current understanding of how PTP substrate selectivity is conferred is limited. Our preliminary studies indicate that modular adaptor proteins may be important in targeting PTPs to specific substrates. We will use Drosophila melanogaster (fruit fly) as a genetically tractable model organism to delineate the role of adaptor proteins in PTP function. This project will delineate a fundamental mechanism for the temporal & spatial control cellular signalling & the coordination of cellular responses.