Non-Targeted Proteomics

The essence of non-targeted proteomics lies in the comprehensive analysis of protein expression in biological samples, not limited to a predefined set of proteins. It provides us with a panoramic view to deeply understand the function of organisms and disease mechanisms.

 

Non-targeted proteomics relies on mass spectrometry technology, especially liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), for large-scale identification and quantification of proteins in cells. Unlike targeted proteomics, it does not require prior knowledge of specific proteins, but analyzes all proteins in the sample in an exploratory manner. This method allows researchers to identify thousands to tens of thousands of proteins in a single experiment, revealing complex protein networks and pathways within cells.

 

The main advantages of non-targeted proteomics are its comprehensiveness and exploratory nature. It can be used for the discovery of disease biomarkers, the analysis of drug mechanisms of action, and the basic understanding of biological processes. For example, in cancer research, by analyzing the differences between the proteomes of tumor tissue and normal tissue, researchers can discover new therapeutic targets and disease markers. In drug development, non-targeted proteomics can help understand how drugs affect the protein networks in cells, thereby optimizing drug design.