Elevated Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase Kappa Expression Is Associated With Disease Progression and Poor Prognosis of Pancreatic Cancer

Background/Aim: Protein tyrosine phosphatase kappa (PTPRK), a recognized tumor suppressor, has been implicated in cancer progression of certain solid tumors. This study investigated the role of PTPRK in the progression of pancreatic cancer. Materials and Methods: PTPRK transcripts were determined in a pancreatic cancer cohort using real-time PCR. The functional impact of PTPRK was evaluated in pancreatic cancer cells with PTPRK knockdown, followed by an assessment of its implications in disease progression. Results: Elevated PTPRK expression was observed in pancreatic cancer and was positively correlated with tumor T stage. Knockdown of PTPRK led to reduced cellular proliferation and decreased expression of cyclin-dependent kinase 6 (CDK6). Additionally, an increase in VEGFC expression was noted in PTPRK knockdown cells. Conclusion: Up-regulation of PTPRK in pancreatic cancer is associated with disease progression and poor prognosis. PTPRK facilitates cancer cell proliferation through CDK6, highlighting the potential for therapeutic strategies targeting PTPRK and CDK6 in pancreatic cancer treatment.