The
techniques of molecular genetics and protein analysis connect dynamic
whole-cell and whole-organism physiology (phenotype) with the static
information content of an organisms DNA (genotype).
The ability to sequence completely the DNA of organisms from all kingdoms
(genome analysis) has now been complemented by methods for the global analysis
of proteins (Proteomics). The genome sequence permits the cataloguing of the
predicted sequences of all unmodified proteins that could potentially be
present in an organism, enabling informed predictions of
physiologically-related (and possibly co-regulated) groups of proteins, and
the identification of potential regulatory proteins for such groups.
Comparison of amino acid sequences of homologous proteins in
diverse species has permitted rapid growth in knowledge pertaining to
protein folding (Structural Proteomics) and enzymatic function (Functional
Proteomics).
Most of this knowledge has evolved directly from an understanding of
the 6000 proteins comprising the yeast proteome itself.
Global analysis of the abundance of proteins under different physiological
conditions or with different mutants (especially regulatory mutants), allows
the recognition of groups of proteins, whose cellular expression patterns may
be co-regulated and whose activities may be post-translationally modulated.
Therefore, in the post-genome era, it is crucial to be able to quickly and
accurately analyze protein expression patterns and quickly recognize their
effects on cell physiology, growth and metabolism.
Our core competence lies in the recent advances in automated protein sample
preparation, mass spectrometry and bioinformatics, the three key phases of
proteome analysis. We feel these capabilities are best outsourced by
fermentation companies because of their complex nature and infrastructure
costs.