It activates the Ras-Erk pathway in an abnormal manner. Shp2 is encoded by the human gene Ptpn11, which can either stimulate or prevent tumor growth. In advanced renal cell carcinoma and glioblastoma, mutations in the PTPN11 gene have been linked to a higher response rate and longer survival. This evidence concerns the gene PTPN11 and renal cell carcinoma.