Application of Proteomics in the Study of Mycobacterium tuberculosis

Abstract:

Proteomics is an emerging discipline developed on the basis of genomics. The fundamental techniques of proteomics include sample preparation, protein separation, protein identification and analysis, and its core techniques are two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. In recent years, proteomics has been used in researching the field of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB). Proteomics promotes deep understanding of the pathogenesis of MTB and resistance mechanism via isolating, identifying and analyzing the whole-cell protein and secreted proteins. The development of new vaccine against MTB has showed some promising results based on proteomics. Some powerful early diagnostic markers have been discovered via analyzing the protein composition of MTB clinical isolates. Proteomics also applies to find potential new drug targets, and it has shown many valuable research productions in developing new anti-MTB drugs. In summary, the application of proteomics has built a solid foundation for the development of prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis.

Key words:Proteomics, 2-Dimensional Electrophoresis, Mass Spectrometry, Mycobacterium tuberculosis