StudiesThe Tools and Techniques of Protein Science: Protein Visualization The Science Advisory Board's study, "Protein Visualization" provides a number of interesting insights into the most current areas of investigation in protein and proteomic research. It is the fourth in an eight-part series of studies entitled, "The Tools & Techniques of Protein Science Catalyzing the Future of Proteomics." More than 500 scientists engaged in protein research participated in this study. Results indicate that respondents predominantly use a scanning densitometer to image one-dimensional polyacrylamide gels (PAGE), while they use charge-coupled device cameras to image one-dimensional agarose gels. There is also a difference in the location of these two pieces of equipment: scanning densitometers are typically located in an area shared by other labs on-site, and charge-coupled device cameras are frequently found in a core facility. However, the number one factor that would influence a respondent's lab to purchase either of these imaging systems over the other is the quality of its image resolution. One-dimensional PAGE is by far the most popular technique for performing qualitative evaluations, quantitative measurements and obtaining publication-quality figures. The second most popular technique used for these imaging applications is one-dimensional agarose gels. Interesting, two-dimensional gel electrophoresis is one of the least used techniques for imaging proteins. Colorimetric stains appear to be the top choice among respondents performing protein analysis/characterization, identification and purification procedures. For researchers hoping to analyze or characterize proteins, radioactively labeling them is the next popular technique. Fluorescent staining is the second choice for researchers trying to identify proteins. Though respondents specify that they use different types of stains and labels depending upon the procedure they perform, the primary reason they select one particular stain or label is its ability to detect low quantities of proteins. The Science Advisory Board is an online panel of more than 6,200 scientists, physicians and other life science and medical professionals from 62 countries. By convening electronically, Science Advisory Board members participate in online studies to voice their opinions on issues that directly affect the evolution and development of the tools and techniques of their professions. If you are interested in participating in other studies on the tools and techniques of your profession, please register for our Research Panel at http://www.scienceboard.net/register, or contact Molly Scott, Membership Coordinator, for The Science Advisory Board at m.scott@scienceboard.net for membership information and study details. Your identity and personal information will be held in the strictest confidence, and you will receive compensation for any studies in which you choose to participate. [ View Current & Future Studies ] [ View Past Studies ] |
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