redoxproteomics

Redox proteomics is a sub-discipline of proteomics that focuses on the study of reversible oxidative modifications to proteins. These modifications, often referred to as redox signaling, occur when reactive oxygen species (ROS) interact with specific amino acid residues within proteins. Unlike oxidative damage, which is generally considered detrimental, redox modifications are increasingly recognized as crucial regulatory events that can alter protein function, localization, and interactions.

The primary goal of redox proteomics is to identify and quantify these redox-sensitive proteins and to characterize the specific modifications they undergo. Techniques employed in redox proteomics often involve affinity enrichment of oxidized proteins followed by mass spectrometry-based identification and quantification. This allows researchers to map the redox landscape of a cell or tissue under various physiological and pathological conditions.

Understanding redox modifications is vital for deciphering cellular signaling pathways involved in processes such as immune response, cell proliferation, and apoptosis. Dysregulation of redox homeostasis has been implicated in numerous diseases, including cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. By providing a global view of protein oxidation, redox proteomics offers insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets. The field is rapidly evolving with advancements in mass spectrometry, bioinformatics, and chemical labeling strategies.