Protein methods are the techniques used to study proteins.
There are experimental methods for studying proteins, e.g. for detecting proteins, for isolating and purifying proteins and other methods for characterizing the structure and function of proteins, often requiring that the protein first be purified. Computational methods typically using computer programs to analyze proteins. However, many experimental methods require computational analysis of the raw data (e.g. mass spectrometry).
Genetic methods
Experimental analysis of proteins typically require expression and purification of proteins. Expression is achieved by manipulating DNA that encodes the protein(s) of interest. Hence protein analysis usually requires DNA methods, especially cloning. Other examples include
- conceptual translation- many proteins are never directly sequenced, but their sequence of amino acids is known by "conceptual translation" of a known mRNA sequence. See genetic code.
- site-directed mutagenesis allows new variants of proteins to be produced and tested for how structural changes alter protein function.
- insertion of protein tags such as the His-tag. See also green fluorescent protein.
- Proteins that are involved in human diseases can be identified by matching alleles to disease and other phenotypes using methods such as calculation of LOD scores.
Detecting proteins
- Protein Isolation
- Protein Extraction and Solubilization
- Protein Concentration Determination Methods, Bradford protein assay
- Concentrating Protein Solutions
- Gel electrophoresis
- Gel Elecdsis Under denaturing conditions
- Gel Electrophoresis Under non-denaturing conditions
- 2D Gel Electrophoresis
- Electrofocusing
Protein structures
Protein-Protein interactions
Protein-DNA interactions
Computational methods
Other methods
References
- "Protein Methods", 2nd Edition by Daniel M. Bollag, Michael D. Rozycki and Stuart J. Edelstein (1996) Published by Wiley Publishers ISBN 0-471-11837-0.
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Processes |
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Structures |
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Types |
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biochemical families: proteins (amino acids/intermediates) · nucleic acids (constituents/intermediates) · carbohydrates (glycoproteins, alcohols, glycosides)
lipids (fatty acids/intermediates, phospholipids, steroids, sphingolipids, eicosanoids) · tetrapyrroles/intermediates
B proteins: BY STRUCTURE: membrane, globular (en, ca, an), fibrous
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