The yeast SWISS-2DPAGE database

Area of Science:

• * Molecular Biology
• * Genomics
• * Proteomics

Background:

• * The yeast genome sequencing is nearing completion, presenting a new challenge to understand gene functions.
• * The European Functional Analysis (EUROFAN) project aims to elucidate the physiological and biochemical roles of yeast open reading frames (ORFs).
• * Protein-based technologies are crucial for establishing a yeast reference map to identify functional changes.

Purpose of the Study:

• * To describe the yeast SWISS-2DPAGE database for functional analysis of yeast proteins.
• * To establish a comprehensive yeast reference map using protein identification techniques.
• * To provide a publicly accessible resource for yeast proteome research.

Main Methods:

• * Utilized two-dimensional gel electrophoresis with immobilized pH gradient (IPG) for charge separation.
• * Employed protein identification methods including gel comparison, amino acid composition analysis, and microsequencing.
• * Recorded and described identified proteins in a standardized format within the SWISS-2DPAGE database.

Main Results:

• * Identified and mapped over one hundred yeast polypeptides, including several novel ones.
• * Developed the yeast SWISS-2DPAGE database as a central repository for proteomic data.
• * Ensured the database is accessible via the World Wide Web (WWW) on the ExPASy server.

Conclusions:

• * The yeast SWISS-2DPAGE database is a valuable tool for functional genomics and proteomics research.
• * This resource facilitates the identification of protein pattern changes linked to biological events.
• * Free online access promotes collaborative research in yeast functional analysis.