Inactivates MAP kinases. Has a specificity for the ERK family (PubMed:9858808). Plays an important role in alleviating chronic postoperative pain. Necessary for the normal dephosphorylation of the long-lasting phosphorylated forms of spinal MAPK1/3 and MAP kinase p38 induced by peripheral surgery, which drives the resolution of acute postoperative allodynia (By similarity). Also important for dephosphorylation of MAPK1/3 in local wound tissue, which further contributes to resolution of acute pain (By similarity). Promotes cell differentiation by regulating MAPK1/MAPK3 activity and regulating the expression of AP1 transcription factors (PubMed:29043977). H2O + O-phospho-L-tyrosyl-[protein] = L-tyrosyl-[protein] + phosphate H2O + O-phospho-L-seryl-[protein] = L-seryl-[protein] + phosphate H2O + O-phospho-L-threonyl-[protein] = L-threonyl-[protein] + phosphate Interacts with MAPK1/ERK2. Expressed in keratinocytes (at protein level). The disease is caused by variants affecting distinct genetic loci, including the gene represented in this entry. Some patients carrying mutations in DUSP6 also have a heterozygous mutation in another HH-associated gene including FGFR1 and SPRY4 (PubMed:23643382). Belongs to the protein-tyrosine phosphatase family. Non-receptor class dual specificity subfamily.