The Human Eye Proteome Project: perspectives on an emerging proteome

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Proteomics
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Millions worldwide suffer from visual impairment, with many eye diseases lacking clear pathogenesis.
• The human eye proteome is an emerging area for understanding disease mechanisms.
• Proteomics offers advanced tools for identifying proteins and their modifications in biological samples.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review proteomic investigations of the human eye.
• To present a comprehensive catalog of identified human eye proteins.
• To emphasize the potential of proteomics in discovering novel biomarkers for eye diseases.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of proteomic studies on human eye tissues and biofluids.
• Compilation and cataloging of identified nonredundant proteins.
• Discussion of recent advancements in proteomic technologies.

Main Results:

• A catalog of 4842 nonredundant proteins identified in the human eye to date has been compiled.
• Recent proteomic advances enable high-throughput protein identification, PTM characterization, and quantification.
• The Human Eye Proteome Project (HEPP) was established to advance eye proteomic research.

Conclusions:

• Proteomic analysis of the human eye is crucial for understanding vision science and disease.
• The identified protein catalog and ongoing HEPP initiatives will accelerate the discovery of eye disease biomarkers.
• Advanced proteomic tools hold significant potential to transform the study and treatment of visual impairments.