Proteomics and the search for biomarkers of female reproductive diseases

Reproduction. 2010 Oct;140(4):505-19. doi: 10.1530/REP-10-0226. Epub 2010 Jul 13.

Abstract

Over the past decade, high-throughput proteomics technologies have evolved considerably and have become increasingly more commonly applied to the investigation of female reproductive diseases. Proteomic approaches facilitate the identification of new disease biomarkers by comparing the abundance of hundreds of proteins simultaneously to find those specific to a particular clinical condition. Some of the best studied areas of female reproductive biology applying proteomics include gynaecological cancers, endometriosis and endometrial infertility. This review will discuss the progress that has been made in these areas and will highlight some of the emerging technologies that promise to contribute to better understanding of the female reproductive disease.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers / analysis*
  • Electrophoresis, Gel, Two-Dimensional / methods
  • Endometriosis
  • Female
  • Genital Diseases, Female / diagnosis
  • Genital Diseases, Female / physiopathology*
  • Humans
  • Mass Spectrometry / methods
  • Proteomics / methods*

Substances

  • Biomarkers