SHP2 (PTP1D, SH-PTP2, or Syp) is a widely expressed protein-tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) that maintains phosphotyrosine homeostasis during growth factor, cytokine, hormone and antigen receptor signaling. This phosphatase contains two N-terminal SH2 domains and a C-terminal phosphatase domain. SHP2 associates with EGF and PDGF growth factor receptors and is activated after stimulation of these receptors. Activation of SHP-2 and its association with Gab1 is critical for sustained ERK activation downstream of both growth factor and cytokine receptors. In addition to its role in Gab1-mediated Erk activation, SHP-2 attenuates EGF-dependent PI3 kinase activation by dephosphorylating Gab1 p85 binding sites. Thus, SHP2 is critical for maintaining phosphotyrosine homeostasis in many cell signaling pathways