Serum, the transparent yellow fluid obtained after coagulation and centrifugation, contains water, proteins (albumin, fibrinogen, and globulin, etc.), lipids, carbohydrates, and other substances. Proteins in serum contain valuable biological information, offering crucial insights into disease occurrence, progression, prediction, and diagnosis. Serum proteomics is a comprehensive study of the types, structures, and functions of proteins in serum. This research method provides insights into biological processes, disease mechanisms, and drug targets. As technology advances, serum proteomics will play an increasingly significant role in biomedical research.
The primary techniques for serum proteomics analysis include protein separation and purification techniques, such as gel electrophoresis, liquid chromatography, etc.; protein identification techniques, such as mass spectrometry, Edman degradation, etc.; protein quantification techniques, such as labeling, label-free methods, etc.; as well as bioinformatics analysis, such as protein clustering analysis, functional annotation, and pathway analysis. These methods work together to advance serum proteomics research.
Analysis Workflow
1. Sample Preparation and Handling
After removing erythrocytes, leukocytes, and platelets, serum is collected through centrifugation and treated with protease inhibitors to prevent protein degradation.
2. Protein Extraction and Purification
Proteins are extracted and purified from serum using methods like salting out, ion exchange chromatography, and affinity chromatography.
3. Proteome Separation
Proteins are separated using 1D or 2D gel electrophoresis or liquid chromatography.
4. Protein Identification and Quantification
Mass spectrometry provides protein molecular weights and peptide sequences for identification and quantification.
5. Data Processing and Analysis
Software like Mascot, SEQUEST, and MaxQuant is used to process and analyze mass spectrometry data.
6. Bioinformatics Analysis
Integrating the analysis results with known bioinformatics data reveals the roles of proteins in biological processes and diseases.
Applications
1. Drug Target Screening and Drug Development
2. Disease Diagnosis and Biomarker Research
3. Systems Biology Research
Deliverables
In the technical report, MtoZ Biolabs will provide you a detailed technical information, including:
1. Experimental Procedures
2. Relevant Mass Spectrometry Parameters
3. Detailed Serum Proteomics Analysis Information
4. Mass Spectrometry Images
5. Raw Data