Recently, it was reported that SHP increases gene expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) via the sequential transcriptional induction of a caudal-related homeobox gene (CDX1) in human gastric cancer cells.(46) With regard to its controversial regulatory propensity, these reports suggest that SHP may participate differently in various cellular functions depending on the cell type. The gene discussed is CDX1; the disease is gastric cancer.