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High throughput DNA sequencing has changed biomedical research. The complete
sequence of the genome for 100 organisms and the nearly complete sequence
of many others, including the human, are giving a new vision to the study
of biological systems. It is, however, apparent that knowledge of the
genome alone is not sufficient for a complete understanding of complex
biological processes. While the genome is the same in different cell types
within an organism and does not change with time, the proteome varies
with time and among different cell types. Cell function is usually fulfilled
through its proteins whereas its potential is indicated by the genome.
In view of recent large-scale data showing that often there is a poor
correlation between mRNA quantities and protein quantities, we cannot
limit gene expression studies to the RNA level but must also investigate
biological problems at the protein level. Despite the significant limitations
of using mRNA arrays for studying gene expression, relatively few investigators
have used proteomic approaches. Moreover, post-translational modifications,
regulation of protein function by proteolysis, and composition of macromolecular
complexes or organelles can only be determined at the protein level, further
emphasizing the importance of studying the proteome.
Proteomic approaches have been successfully used for studying complex
biological problems and for the identification of disease markers. Recent
developments in proteomics indicate that the technologies available are
already sufficiently advanced to approach many biological questions relevant
to the NIDDK mandate.
This workshop will provide a venue to bring together investigators with
expertise in proteomics and those interested in applying this technology
to problems related to diabetes, endocrinology and metabolic diseases.
Several leaders in the field will illustrate the state of the art in proteomics
and their possible use to study diabetes.
FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES IN PROTEOMICS:
This workshop is part of larger proteomics initiative that NIDDK has recently
started. This initiative includes a special emphasis program announcement
that seeks to promote the use of proteomic technologies for studying diabetes
and its complications, and other endocrine and metabolic diseases.
http://grants1.nih.gov/grants/guide/pa-files/PA-03-052.html
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