Proteomic maps of the cancer-associated infectious agents

The number of infectious agents associated with cancer is increasing. There is a need to develop approaches for the early detection of the infected host which might lead to tumor development. Recent advances in proteomic approaches provide that opportunity, and it is now possible to generate proteomic maps of cancer-associated infectious agents. Protein arrays, interaction maps, data archives, and biological assays are being developed to enable efficient and reliable protein identification and functional analysis. Herein, we discuss the current technologies and challenges in the field, and application of protein signatures in cancer detection and prevention.