Quantitative Proteomics Analysis Empowering Biomedical Research

Quantitative proteomics reveals the complex protein composition and regulatory networks in biological organisms by precisely measuring changes in protein abundance. This technology has brought about key breakthroughs in biomedical research, propelling advancements in areas such as disease diagnosis, drug development, and personalized medicine.

 

Principle of Quantitative Proteomics Analysis

The core principle of quantitative proteomics analysis is to measure the relative or absolute changes in protein expression levels under different conditions. This process usually involves key steps such as sample preparation, protein digestion, mass spectrometry analysis, and data interpretation.

 

Methods of Quantitative Proteomics Analysis

1. Mass Spectrometry Quantitative Techniques

(1) Multiple Reaction Monitoring (MRM): This technique quantifies target proteins by selectively detecting specific peptides and transition ions.

(2) Quantitative Proteomics (SILAC, iTRAQ, TMT, etc.): These techniques use isotopic labels to compare the differences in protein abundance in different samples, thus achieving quantitative measurement.

 

2. Isotope Labeling Techniques

(1) Chemical Labeling: By introducing isotopic labels recognisable by chemical reactions in different samples and comparing the differences in abundance of these labels, the expression levels of target proteins can be quantified.

(2) Metabolic Labeling: This technique uses isotopic labels produced in metabolic processes in organisms to compare their abundance differences, achieving protein quantification.

 

3. Label-free Techniques

Label-free proteomics infers protein expression levels by directly comparing the peptide spectra or chromatographic peak areas in samples. This method simplifies the experimental operation process as it does not require the introduction of isotopic labels.

 

Applications of Quantitative Proteomics Analysis

1. Disease Mechanism Research

Quantitative proteomics analysis can reveal the molecular mechanisms of disease onset and progression. By comparing the differences in protein expression between pathological and normal samples, scientists can discover potential disease biomarkers, providing important clues for disease diagnosis and treatment.

 

2. Drug Development and Evaluation

Quantitative proteomics analysis can be used to evaluate the impact of drugs on the proteome. Scientists can research the interactions between drugs and proteins, understand their effects and safety, and provide a basis for drug development and optimization.

 

3. Personalized Medicine

Quantitative proteomics analysis helps identify protein differences between individuals, providing basic data for personalized medicine. By analyzing individual samples' proteomes, scientists can determine individual-specific characteristics, thus achieving precise diagnosis and treatment.

 

As an advanced technology in proteomics, quantitative proteomics analysis provides a key step in our understanding of protein expression and regulation within biological organisms. By precisely measuring changes in protein abundance, we can reveal the complexity of the proteome and promote the development of biomedical research. With the continual advancement of technology, quantitative proteomics analysis will play an increasingly important role in areas like disease diagnosis, drug development, and personalized medicine.