Proteomics as a tool for biomarker detection using SELDITOFMS and 2D DIGE

The field of proteomics has developed rapidly in re cent years. Until the mid-1990s scientists studied individual genes and proteins or a handful biologically related genes and proteins. Basis of proteomics is to characterize the behavior of the system rather than the behavior of any single component. The proteome is dynamic and in constant flux due to a combination of factors. These factors include posttranslational modifications and functional regulation of gene expression (1). Moreover, in proteomics protein identification is not necessarily performed by complete sequence analysis, but can also be performed by partial sequence analysis with the aid of database matching tools. Proteomics Clinical proteomics focuses at the identification of protein disease biomarkers in biological fluids or tissue samples. Such biomarkers can function as indicators of abnormalities before clinical symptoms arise, enabling initiation of therapy at early stages. By un raveling the pathogenic mechanisms, these biomarkers might also facilitate therapeutic interventions by providing clues for targeted therapy and by reflect ing the biochemical effect of new developed drugs. Analyzing the human proteome requires specialized quantitative proteomic technologies and expertise.