Abstract: With pT7 as a vector, ΔSHP-1, a recombinant protein containing the catalytic domain of protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP-1, was highl y expressed in E.coli cells. The enzyme was further purified to near homogeneity. With the purified recombinant enzyme as a target, aqueous extracts of 157 traditional Chinese herb medicines were analyzed for their abilities to inhibit SHP-1. Two most potent inhibitors, namely, cornel and dandelion, were identified, and their IC₅₀ values and inhibitory types were further analyzed. This study thus established a good system to screen inhibitors of SHP-1 and demonstrated the potential of traditional Chinese medicines in treatment of immunological diseases and diabetes.

Key words: SH2containing tyrosine phosphatase 1(SHP-1), traditional Chinese herb, inhibitor, screening