PNNL

Abstract

Global analysis of systems, whether it be at the nucleotide level (functional genomics) or at the protein level (proteomics) has garnered much attention over the last few years. This review attempts to provide a current overview of proteomics along with thoughts on what advancements in the field can accomplish. A brief comparison between protein and mRNA analysis reveals the additional avenues available for proteome research versus gene array based studies. Further discussion focuses on the contribution of mass spectrometric techniques for identification of proteins, which are the driving force of existing practices. Advantages and disadvantages of current approaches and quantitation methods are addressed. Procedures for investigations of post-translational modifications and protein-protein interactions are presented as challenges for proteomics to fulfill. Finally, potential applications of proteome investigations in the field of hematology are discussed.