Metaproteomiikka

Metaproteomics is a branch of proteomics that focuses on the study of protein structure and function in complex ecosystems, such as the human microbiome. It combines the principles of metagenomics (the study of genetic material in a community or ecosystem) with proteomics (the study of proteins and their functions in biological systems).

By analyzing the proteins present in a sample, researchers can gain insights into the metabolic processes and functional capabilities of the organisms within a metagenome. This can include understanding how they respond to environmental changes, how they interact with each other, and how they contribute to disease or health.

Metaproteomics involves identifying and quantifying protein tryptic peptides in a sample and then mapping them to corresponding peptides in a reference proteome. The resulting data is analyzed using bioinformatics tools to functionally annotate the peptides and reconstruct an estimate of the functional potential of the metagenome.

Metaproteomics has a range of applications in both basic and applied research. For instance, it can help scientists to understand the ecology of human-associated microbiota, investigate the role of pathogens in disease and the effects of environmental stressors on ecosystem health.

Metaproteomic techniques include shotgun proteomics, tandem mass tag (TMT) labeling, and proximity extension assay (PEA). The data generated is usually analyzed using computational tools such as SEQUEST, Mascot, and Protscape. Overall, metaproteomics offers a powerful approach to understanding the biology of complex ecosystems and has the potential to reveal new insights into the functioning of nature.