简介：Use a highly automated and reproducible proteomics approach to obtain insight into a complex biological system, combining MALDI TOF and ESI linear ion trap mass spectrometry with 2D-DIGE.

　　仪器：LTQMALDI TOF

　　结论：This study describes the application of an advanced, highly automated proteomics workflow consisting of ifferential expression analysis, peptide mass fingerprinting, and tandem mass spectrometry to gain an insight into a complex biological problem.

　　The DIGE technology in combination with image analysis 2-D software was instrumental for highlighting the proteins that were significantly up- or down-regulated, while Ettan Spot Handling Workstation streamlined the sample handling for mass spectrometric analysis. Peptide mass fingerprinting with Ettan MALDI ToF provided speedy identification of the majority of proteins.

　　The capillary LC-MS/MS technique afforded the identification of samples containing more than one protein. Such samples cannot be successfully analyzed by peptide mass fingerprinting analysis, clearly demonstrate the benefit of the MS/MS approach. The speed and sensitivity associated with the LTQ linear ion trap mass spectrometer then allow short method times and ensure the maximum sequence coverage for confident protein identification in a high throughput setup.

　　In addition, a focused study on proteins obtained by sub-cellular fractionation could prove suitable to identify proteins involved in metabolism and toxicity in the liver following administration of drugs. Greater understanding of these processes should significantly improve the efficiency of ADME/Tox screening studies during drug discovery campaigns.