Proteomic analysis

Definition

Proteomic analysis is the large-scale study of proteins, particularly their structures and functions. It is used to identify and quantify proteins in a given sample to understand biological processes at the molecular level.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Proteomic analysis helps identify microorganisms by characterizing their protein expression profiles.
2. Mass spectrometry is a primary technique used in proteomic analysis for identifying proteins.
3. Protein databases are essential for matching mass spectrometry data to known proteins.
4. Proteomic analysis can reveal post-translational modifications, which are critical for understanding protein function.
5. Bioinformatics tools play a crucial role in analyzing and interpreting proteomic data.

Review Questions

• What primary technique is used in proteomic analysis to identify proteins?
• How does proteomic analysis contribute to identifying microorganisms?
• Why are bioinformatics tools important in proteomic analysis?

Related terms

Mass Spectrometry: An analytical technique used to measure the mass-to-charge ratio of ions, essential in proteomics for identifying and quantifying proteins.

Post-translational Modifications: Chemical changes to a protein after its synthesis, affecting its function and activity.

Bioinformatics: The use of computational tools to manage, analyze, and interpret biological data.