Abstract
The MAP kinase p38α is essential for neuronal signaling. To better understand the molecular regulation of p38α we used atomistic and molecular techniques to determine the structural basis of p38α regulation by the two neuronal tyrosine phosphatases, PTPSL/PTPBR7 (PTPRR) and STEP (PTPN5). We show that, despite the fact that PTPSL and STEP belong to the same family of regulatory proteins, they interact with p38α differently and their distinct molecular interactions explain their different catalytic activities. Although the interaction of PTPSL with p38α is similar to that of the previously described p38α:HePTP (PTPN7) complex, STEP binds and regulates p38α in an unexpected manner. Using NMR and small-angle X-ray scattering data, we generated a model of the p38α:STEP complex and define molecular differences between its resting and active states. Together, these results provide insights into molecular regulation of p38α by key regulatory proteins.