SysProt - System-wide analysis and modelling of protein modification

Project summary

The proposed project aims at the development of a new paradigm for the integration of proteomics data into systems biology. The goal is to gain relevant knowledge on biological processes that are important for human health and to use this knowledge for the purpose of disease modelling. The strategy to achieve this objective is an innovative, explorative systems biology approach both on the molecular and physiological level with a strong focus on protein function and modification.

The project will produce the necessary proteomics data indispensable for the identification of novel circulating protein factors and post-translational protein modifications that are important for the onset, dynamics and progression of complex diseases. Data generation will be complemented by the development of computational analysis methods for these novel data types and creation of an adequate modelling technology. The project will benefit from the utilisation of established mouse disease models, existing benchmarking modules for computational analysis and the functional genomics platforms developed by and accessible to the partners. The consortium aims to demonstrate the newly developed technologies in a proof-of-principle study in an obesity-induced type-2 diabetes mouse model.

The project consortium is headed by an SME and completed by four academic partners from three European countries. This composition of commercial and academic interests guarantees high-level scientific research as well as a strong focus on the commercial relevance and exploitation of the project results. Thus the proposed project will strengthen Europe's scientific and commercial competitiveness in the field of systems biology, which is one of the key technologies in future medical and pharmacogenetics research.

This project is funded by the European Commission, sixth framework programme for research and technical development.