Genomes and proteomes: towards a multidimensional view of biology

The third Siena proteomics conference held August 31-September 4, 1998, heralded a change in emphasis from technology development to using proteomics to assist in resolving biological questions. In this review, proteomics is placed in context with other major influences in the way discovery research is conducted in biology. The current status of genomics is examined in its broadest sense, including how such studies may influence the development of proteomics. It is suggested that we are entering a new phase in biology where information is no longer limiting and integration of different technologies is required to attack the big problems of biology. While much of the focus of funding bodies, both in the public and private sector, is on practical outcomes (new drugs, etc.), the new technologies are equally amenable to attacking long-standing fundamental challenges, such as cell division, cell patterning and morphogenesis.