Interactome

Interactome is a comprehensive set of molecular interactions in a particular cell. The term specifically refers to physical contacts between proteins but can also describe other molecules interactions such as with DNA, RNA, and biochemicals.

Overview

The interactome represents the interaction network of proteins in a cell, which is crucial for the cell to perform its functions. The interactions can be direct or indirect, and they can be either physical or functional. The study of the interactome is an important part of systems biology, which aims to understand the complex interactions between biological molecules in a holistic manner.

Interactome Studies

Interactome studies are a relatively new field of research, but they have already provided valuable insights into the workings of the cell. They have revealed that proteins do not act in isolation, but rather in complex networks of interactions. This has led to a shift in focus from individual proteins to the networks they form.

Techniques for Studying the Interactome

Several techniques are used to study the interactome, including yeast two-hybrid screening, mass spectrometry, and bioinformatics analysis. Each of these techniques has its strengths and weaknesses, and they are often used in combination to provide a more complete picture of the interactome.

Importance of the Interactome

The interactome is important for understanding the complex workings of the cell. It can provide insights into how proteins function and how they are regulated. It can also help to identify new drug targets and to understand the mechanisms of disease.

See Also

• Proteomics
• Systems biology
• Bioinformatics
• Molecular biology

References

Interactome Resources
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