Summary

Discover important lessons learned about whole organism biology via microbial proteomics

This text provides an exhaustive analysis and presentation of current research in the field of microbial proteomics, with an emphasis on new developments and applications and future directions in research. The editors and authors show how and why the relative simplicity of microbes has made them attractive targets for extensive experimental manipulation in a quest for both improved disease prevention and treatment and an improved understanding of whole organism functional biology. In particular, the text demonstrates how microbial proteomic analyses can aid in drug discovery, including identification of new targets, novel diagnostic markers, and lead optimization.

Each chapter is written by one or more leading experts in the field and carefully edited to ensure a consistent and thorough approach throughout. Methods, technologies, and tools associated with the most promising approaches are stressed. Key topics covered include:

While presenting the practical utility of proteomics data, the text is also clear on the field's current limitations, pointing to areas where further investigation is needed.

Offering a state-of-the-art perspective from internationally recognized experts, this text is ideally suited for researchers and students across the gamut of genomic sciences, including biochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, genetics, biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences, biotechnology, and veterinary science.

Choice Review

Proteomics may be roughly described as the study of the regulation of the genome of an organism. Historically, much of the understanding of microbial expression has involved labeling RNA or protein and observing what is expressed. The advantage of proteomics is that one can observe genome expression in the context of the entire genome, not just select genes. Measuring not only the relative level of expression, but also changes in the pattern of protein expression, has become possible. Humphery-Smith (Utrecht Univ.) and Hecker (Ernst-Moritz-Arndt-Univ., Greifswald) offer a compendium that covers the current state of research. The book is divided into 23 chapters, written by experts in their respective areas. Topics range from understanding general metabolic regulation to better understanding pathogenic mechanisms. For example, an understanding of pathogenic mechanisms has historically centered on genes that encode toxins or other virulence factors, often in the absence of a host context. More recent proteomic applications have included the roles of quorum sensing, as well as effects of the host on microbial gene expression in general. The authors have provided a thorough overview of what is still a relatively new field of study. They include large numbers of references. ^BSumming Up: Recommended. Graduate students and above. R. Adler University of Michigan--Dearborn