Abstract and Introduction
Abstract
Proteomics is a rapidly developing discipline that seeks to understand the role of proteins in the wider biological context. In order to take a holistic view of a biological system, it is vital that we can elucidate the dynamics of the proteome. In this article, we have outlined the recent advances in experimental strategies for measuring protein synthesis and degradation on a proteome-wide scale. The application of mass spectrometry and non-mass spectrometric-based approaches in this field of research has been discussed. The article also explores the challenges associated with these types of analyses and the development of appropriate bioinformatic resources for interrogating the complex datasets that are generated.
Introduction
Proteomics is a key technology used to probe the biology of living systems. It has developed rapidly from the simple identification of proteins to the high-throughput characterization and quantification of large cohorts of proteins.[1,2] Proteomics seeks to provide a functional link between expressed genes and phenotypic outcomes. Unlike the genome, which is considered the blueprint of an organism, the proteome is not a predetermined, static entity. The proteome is in constant flux, which is influenced by environmental conditions, cellular function, developmental status and extracellular challenge. In addition to changes in protein concentration, the function of a protein can also be modulated by post-translation modifications such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination, glycosylation and proteolysis. Even when a cell is in a position of apparent steady state, the protein complement is constantly changing, with new proteins being synthesized and older proteins being degraded and recycled to minimize damage to the cell.[3]
Moving from a single 'snapshot' of the proteome to understanding the dynamic processes requires the use of sophisticated analytical and bioinformatic resources. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a key technology in the field of proteomics, with recent developments in instrumentation allowing the proteome to be probed to unprecedented levels. These advances, coupled with the ability to obtain accurate quantitative data for large cohorts of proteins,[4,5] have led to an explosion in proteomic applications. In this article, we will focus on recent developments in the methods and technologies used to explore the dynamics of cellular protein turnover in biological systems.
Expert Rev Proteomics. 2011;8(3):325-334. © 2011 Expert Reviews Ltd.
Cite this: Proteomics Moves From Expression to Turnover - Medscape - Jun 01, 2011.
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