Proteomics combines two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectroscopy methods to identify large numbers of proteins and peptides expressed by cells under different conditions and with diverse genetic makeup. This is the key endpoint in gene expression: understanding how different states of protein expression alter the responsive properties of cells is at the heart of functional genomics.

The CGB is committed to have the necessary investigator(s) and personnel to create a professional core laboratory. One of the CGB's major goals is to attract several new faculty to work with the CGB, and the strong proteomic capabilities at ORNL to provide a greater level of support and expertise in the area of proteomics.  Support from the CGB will also usher in new capabilities for this Core, including high throughput protein identification and the next levels of mass spectrometry instruments.

A significant increase in capabilities will be provided by bioinformatics. Our Gel Analysis unit and Bioinformatics Core will work closely with the Proteomics Core to help solve the daunting task of databasing and comparing thousands of spots on different gels.