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Protein expression signatures: an application of proteomics
Brian P Bradley1, Elizabeth A Shrader, David G Kimmel
1Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maryland, UMBC, Baltimore 21250, USA. bbradley@umbc.edu
Marine Environmental Research
|November 1, 2002
Summary
Proteomics can detect specific protein expression signatures (PES) from environmental stressors. This method shows promise for diagnosing adverse environmental factors, even in complex settings like sewage effluent.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Proteomics
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Proteomics offers methods for environmental testing.
- Identifying protein expression signatures (PES) can indicate environmental stressors.
- Current challenges include demonstrating feasibility in complex environmental matrices.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the applicability of proteomics for environmental testing.
- To demonstrate the detection of PES in complex environmental samples.
- To assess the potential of PES for diagnosing adverse environmental factors.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing computer imaging software to isolate stressor-specific proteins.
- Employing mass spectrometry for individual protein identification.
- Analyzing protein expression patterns to generate PES.
Main Results:
- Successfully detected PES for three endocrine-disrupting compounds in trout (Onchorhynchus mykiss).
- Demonstrated detection within mixed sewage effluent, a complex environmental sample.
- Supported by other independent research findings.
Conclusions:
- PES derived from proteomics are feasible for detecting environmental stressors in complex settings.
- Advancements in protein databases and identification techniques will streamline the process.
- The development of specific capture molecules could lead to simple field tests for multiple environmental stressors.