May 21, 2012
Journal Article

Mass spectrometry-based proteomics: existing capabilities and future directions

Abstract

Mass spectrometry-based proteomics provides a means for identification, characterization, and quantification of biomolecules that are integral components of the processes essential for life. Characterization of proteins present in a biological system at the proteome and sub-proteomes (e.g., the phosphoproteome, proteoglycome, or degradome/peptidome) levels provides a foundation for understanding fundamental aspects as well as potentially a range of translational applications. Emerging technologies such as ion mobility separations coupled with mass spectrometry and microchip-based - proteome measurements combined with continued enhancement of MS instrumentation and separation techniques, such as reversed phase liquid chromatography and potentially capillary electrophoresis, show great promise for both broad undirected as well as targeted measurements and will be critical for e.g., the proteome-wide characterization of post translational modifications and identification, or the verification, and validation of potential biomarkers of disease. MS-based proteomics is also increasingly demonstrating great potential for contributing to our understanding of the dynamics, reactions, and roles proteins and peptides play advancing our understanding of biology on a system wide level for a wide range of applications, from investigations of microbial communities, bioremediation, and human health and disease states alike.

Revised: May 30, 2012 | Published: May 21, 2012

Citation

Angel T.E., U.K. Aryal, S.M. Hengel, E.S. Baker, R.T. Kelly, E.W. Robinson, and R.D. Smith. 2012. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics: existing capabilities and future directions. Chemical Society Reviews 41, no. 10:3912-3928. PNNL-SA-84530. doi:10.1039/C2CS15331A