Complex Protein Interaction Webs Challenge Growth of Functional Proteomics.

Business Editors/Health/Medical Writers

PALO ALTO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 22, 2003

Researchers in the field of functional proteomics are inching toward developing accurate protein interaction maps, as highly complex protein interactions within biological systems pose significant difficulties in distinguishing between valid and inconsequential associations.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (http://www.biotech.frost.com), World Functional Proteomics Markets, reveals that this market generated revenues worth $116 million in 2002 and is likely to reach $ 489 million by 2009.

"The difficulty in identifying valid, high quality interactions results in false positives and negatives, which undermine the confidence of researchers," says Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Sinead Igoe. "Even if all the associations in the interaction web were valid, creation of predictive models is a challenging task due to the high level of complexities."

Currently, the data and information available in functional proteomics, particularly in the protein-protein interaction databases, is plagued by contradictions and inaccuracies. This has led to unreliable results, creating a compelling need to validate data.

However, validation of the data generated from functional studies is a time-consuming process that delays research processes and results in a lower throughput.

Researchers are also confronting a variety of difficulties in studying post-translational protein modifications. Some of the key concerns are the sensitivity level of present-day technologies, alteration of modifications during the 'preparation' phase, and keeping focus on identification rather than quantification.

"Due to the high level of complications involved, many researchers are limiting themselves to identification of modifications that are more stable and easily detectable," says Igoe.

Meanwhile, the increasing prospect of understanding cell pathways and the manner in which cells communicate, is generating greater investment and attention from researchers, who are focusing more on increasing throughput.

Extensive knowledge of cell systems and pathway properties is likely to provide an insight into the disease mechanisms, leading to new therapeutic regimens for combating diseases.

"Sophisticated yet simplified technologies that can accelerate the process of functional determination as well as for measuring, cataloging, and understanding protein activity are likely to shape future growth," concludes Igoe.

The World Functional Proteomics Markets is part of the Proteomics subscription. This analysis provides an in-depth examination of the various steps involved in protein function determination apart from probing the following key market segments: protein-protein interactions, post-translational modifications, and informatics tools used for protein function analysis. Interviews are available to the press.

Frost & Sullivan, an international growth consultancy, has been supporting clients' expansion for more than four decades. Our market expertise covers a broad spectrum of industries, while our portfolio of advisory competencies includes custom strategic consulting, market intelligence, and management training. Our mission is to forge partnerships with our clients' management teams to deliver market insights and to create value and drive growth through innovative approaches. Frost & Sullivan's network of consultants, industry experts, corporate trainers, and support staff spans the globe with offices in every major country around the world.

World Functional Proteomics Markets

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