Proteomics 1

These flashcards cover key concepts and methodologies related to proteomics based on the introductory lecture, facilitating understanding and retention for exam preparation.

What does the term proteomics refer to?

The study of all proteins in a model system.

What year was the term 'proteomics' coined?

1994.

What two main types of ionization are used in mass spectrometry for proteins?

Electrospray and MALDI.

What is the purpose of using trypsin in proteomics?

To cleave proteins into smaller peptides suitable for mass spectrometry.

What does the proteome consist of?

All the proteins expressed by the genome in a given system.

What is the main challenge of analyzing complex protein samples?

Identifying all proteins from mixtures that may contain thousands of different proteins.

In mass spectrometry, what happens during the fragmentation process?

Peptides are broken into smaller pieces which provide sequence information.

What does 'bottom up proteomics' refer to?

The methodology where large proteins are digested into peptides for analysis.

What are post-translational modifications?

Chemical modifications made to proteins after translation, affecting their function.

Why is it important to reduce disulfide bonds in proteins before mass spectrometry?

To ensure the protein is in a suitable confirmation for digestion and analysis.

What is the purpose of liquid chromatography in LC-MS?

To separate peptides based on their physical and chemical properties before mass spectrometry.

What is the function of a mass spectrometer?

To measure the mass-to-charge ratio of ions and identify compounds based on their mass.

What is a peptide mass fingerprint?

The mass spectrum generated by measuring the masses of peptides produced from a protein digest.

What is the role of the database in protein identification during mass spectrometry?

To match experimental peptide data with known protein sequences.

What are B and Y ions?

Ions generated from peptide fragmentation used to determine peptide sequences.

Why is quantitative proteomics important?

It allows researchers to compare protein abundances under different conditions.

How can increasing the resolution of mass spectrometry be beneficial?

It allows for better differentiation between peptides with similar masses.